Studying in the UK is an exciting and life-changing experience. You are meeting new people, learning new things and building a future for yourself. Unfortunately, it also makes you a potential target for scammers who see international students as vulnerable. Being aware of how scams work, and where you can go for help, is the best way to stay safe.
What is a scam and why are students targeted?
A scam is when someone deliberately tricks you into giving away money, information, or access to your accounts. Scammers may pretend to be someone they are not, use fear to pressure you into acting quickly, or create fake opportunities that seem too good to miss.
International students are often targeted because they may not yet be familiar with UK systems, official procedures, or everyday scams. You might also feel extra pressure around visas, police registration or financial security, and fraudsters know how to exploit those worries.
Common scams to watch out for
Sadly, scammers are becoming more inventive and there are new types of scams developing all of the time. However, here are some of the main scams affecting international students at the moment:
Impersonation scams
These are some of the most common types of fraud. Criminals pretend to be police officers, immigration officials, bank staff, or even university employees. They may call you directly, using false caller IDs, or send official-looking emails and letters. The scam usually involves creating fear: for example, saying your visa is invalid, or your bank account has been compromised, and demanding an immediate payment or fine. Remember, genuine officials in the UK will never ask you to transfer money quickly over the phone. There have also been cases of people impersonating family members, so it is always best to hang up and call yourself to make sure they are legitimate.
Cyber-kidnapping scams
These scams are especially frightening. A student is manipulated into isolating themselves — for example, by being told they are under investigation and must hide from contact. At the same time, the fraudsters contact the student’s family, often overseas, with staged photos or videos to make it appear as if the student has been kidnapped. The family is then pressured to pay a ransom. Cases like this have already been reported among international student communities.
Deepfake identity scams
Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have created new risks. Fraudsters now use AI-generated video or audio to impersonate people during online interviews or to trick institutions into approving fake applications. Students can also be targeted with convincing “video calls” from supposed officials. It’s important to be aware that technology can be used to make scams look more realistic than ever before. Remember, nobody from your university, bank or other official body in the UK would ask you to transfer money or for your details urgently.
Advance-fee scams
This type of scam often starts with a tempting offer: a job that pays well, cheap accommodation, or “help” with visa extensions. But to secure the opportunity, you are asked to pay an upfront fee. Once you pay, the offer disappears — and so does your money. Housing scams, in particular, are common in university towns, with fake adverts posted on social media or unofficial websites.
Romance and investment scams
Also known as “pig butchering” scams, these involve criminals building a personal relationship with you, often online. Over time, they gain your trust before persuading you to send money or invest in fake schemes. The amounts lost can be very large, and victims may also feel embarrassed, which stops them from seeking help. It’s important to remember: if someone you’ve only met online starts asking for money, it’s a warning sign.
Real examples: Recently, Chinese students in London were targeted by fake officials demanding “legal fees” to avoid deportation. Universities have also reported deepfake applicants during admissions interviews. In Australia, students lost millions of pounds in just a few months to scams linked to fake authorities.
How to protect yourself
The most important thing is to stay cautious and trust your instincts. Keep these golden rules in mind:
- Be sceptical of unexpected calls, texts or emails — especially if they demand urgent action.
- Check official channels. UK police, immigration services, and universities will never pressure you to transfer money immediately.
- Protect your personal details. Don’t share passport numbers, bank accounts, or one-time passcodes with strangers.
- Pause before acting. If something feels rushed or threatening, it’s usually a red flag. You can ask to call them back; any official person would be happy to accommodate this.
- Ask for help. INTO staff can help you check whether something is genuine.
What to do if you have been targeted
If you believe you may already have been caught in a scam:
- Stop contact immediately and don’t send any more money.
- Save all evidence, such as emails, screenshots or payment details.
- Report it to INTO Student Services — we can guide you, provide translation if needed, and help you contact the police or Action Fraud.
- Seek emotional support. Being scammed can feel overwhelming, but our wellbeing team is here to help.
How INTO supports you
At INTO, your safety and wellbeing are our top priorities. We:
- Share updates and alerts to help you recognise scams.
- Work closely with partner universities and local police.
- Provide online training to help you recognise common scams and what to do.
- Offer multilingual support to explain issues in your own language, and provide wellbeing services if you’ve been affected.
If you are ever unsure about a message, phone call, or email, please come to us. It’s always better to check first.
Scams can happen to anyone, but awareness is your strongest defence. By recognising the warning signs and speaking up when something doesn’t feel right, you can protect yourself and your family. Remember: if in doubt, talk to INTO staff. We’re here to keep you safe so you can focus on what really matters — your studies and your future.
