Students in the UK are increasingly targeted by scams, and international students can be especially at risk. If you’re living in the UK for the first time and managing money for tuition, accommodation, and living costs, you may be seen as a target by scammers.
These scams can happen online, by phone, email or social media and often appear to come from trusted sources like the Home Office, UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI), HMRC, the police, the Student Loans Company, PayPal, or even University services like IT or the Library.
The aim? To access your money or personal information. Sadly, some students have already lost large sums.
The University of Aberdeen want you to stay safe. Take a few minutes to learn about the most common scams and how to protect yourself. And remember, if something feels off, don’t respond. Contact the Infohub at the University or a trusted source for advice.
Types of Scams to be aware of
- Impersonation Calls
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Scammers may pose as government officials or embassy staff, claiming you're in legal trouble and demanding money.
Hang up immediately. Always verify by calling the organisation directly using official contact details.
- Fake Tuition Fee Discounts
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Fraudsters may offer a “15% discount” if you pay your tuition fees early. These offers are fake. Only pay fees through the official University channels. You can contact the Infohub directly if you wish to check anything regarding the University processes including tuition fees.
- Accommodation Scams
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Scammers may advertise fake properties and ask for upfront payments. Avoid listings on social media and always verify properties through trusted letting agents.
Read the Guide to Private Accommodation for more information and tips.
- Job Scams
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If you’re offered a job unexpectedly, especially via WhatsApp or Instagram, it’s likely fake.
Scammers may ask you to pay fees to unlock your wages. Don’t engage.
Read the student guide to protecting yourself and your personal data when applying for vacancies
- Student Loans Company Scams
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You may receive emails saying a Student Loans Company will call you to verify payment details. This is not true. Always log in to your official Student Loans Company account for updates. If in doubt, contact them directly or contact the University for advice via the Infohub or Student Advice and Support.
- Visa/Immigration Scam
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New tactics targets International students.
Fraudsters impersonate officials from UK Visas and Immigration or Chinese law enforcement, claiming the student is involved in serious crimes like money laundering. They use fake phone numbers, official-looking documents, and video calls to appear legitimate.
Once trust is gained, students are coerced into transferring large sums as "security deposits" or "bail." In one case, a student was subjected to a "virtual kidnapping," monitored via constant video calls, and isolated from friends and family.
There are also instances of fake embassy letters or emails being sent. Scammers send official-looking documents claiming that the student is facing issues with their immigration status or documents, with threats to deport the student unless immediate payment is made.
How to Protect Yourself
- Ignore pressure tactics. No legitimate body will ask for immediate payments or personal info over the phone.
- Verify suspicious contacts through trusted channels.
- Look out for red flags like strange wording or urgent demands.
- Speak to someone you trust if you're unsure.
- Warn your family back home. Scammers often contact them directly, especially during the night due to time zones.
- For help, advice and to report all IT incidents, you can contact IT services.
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Police Scotland have also released some guidance on how to stay safe online: Student online Safety Guide
Report Suspicious Activity
If you're unsure or need help, contact the University's Student Support Team or report directly to Police Scotland via 101.
Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, and new scams can appear at any time. Stay vigilant and treat any unexpected or unusual communication with caution.
Online Safety and Security
Knowing how to keep your online data and information safe is important. You can find out more about how to protect your data and improve your online security via our toolkit.