Starting university brings lots of new opportunities but unfortunately, it can also make you a target for scams and fraud. Scammers know that many students are often managing money, housing, and independence for the first time, and they use this to try to trick you into giving away personal information, bank details or money.
Students are targeted because many are living away from home for the first time; finances can be tight making 'too good to be true' offers tempting; students often rely on email, text, and social media which are common channels for scams.
Common scams affecting students:
- Phishing emails pretending to be from the university, HMRC, or Student Loans Company.
- Rental scams when searching for accommodation.
- Fake job offers that ask for bank details or upfront payments.
- Online shopping and ticket scams through unofficial sites.
- Romance or friendship scams where trust is built online before money is requested.
- Bank or money mule scams where scammers convince students to let their bank account be used to 'transfer money'. This is illegal (money laundering) and can result in the student’s account being frozen or closed.
International students can be especially vulnerable to scams. Common scams affecting international students:
- Visa or immigration scams where fraudsters pose as the Home Office or immigration officials. You are told there is a problem with your visa, and you must pay immediately to avoid deportation.
- Tuition fee payment scams where scammers advertise 'discounted' or 'third-party' tuition fee payment services.
- Accommodation or rental scams where fake landlords or letting agents advertise housing online. You are asked to pay deposits or rent before viewing the property, which doesn’t exist or isn’t available.
UKCISA have produced information about frauds and scams for international students.
Scams are designed to look convincing so anyone can be targeted. The best protection is knowing the warning signs and taking simple precautions.
- Think before you click - don’t click on links in unexpected emails or texts. Check the sender’s address as scammers often use fake ones that look similar to official accounts.
- Keep your personal information safe - never share your passwords, PINs, or bank details by email, text, or phone. Use strong, unique passwords.
- Be wary of ‘too good to be true’ offers - high-paying jobs with little effort, huge discounts, or instant loans are often scams. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Don’t be rushed - scammers often pressure you with urgency. Verify emails, phone calls, and websites before sharing personal details.
What support is available if I have been scammed or a victim of fraud?
Forward suspicious texts to 7726.
Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk.
Contact your bank immediately to stop a scam in progress by dialling 159.
Stop! Think Fraud - How to stay safe from scams information from the UK government about how to spot a fraud and what you can do if you think you have been targeted.
Student Scams Toolkit Scam Wise have produced a toolkit which provides top tips for avoiding a variety of scams.
Report Fraud is the place to report cyber crime and fraud. Report Fraud also provides the Report Fraud victim service which offers specialist support to victims of cyber crime and fraud.
The University offers wellbeing support through the mental health and wellbeing team. For details of the services available and to book an appointment, visit their portal pages.