Staying Safe in a Digital and Connected World
Scams and fraud can affect anyone.
Criminals often target students and staff because they may have access to finances, personal information, accommodation, employment opportunities or professional networks.
Modern scams can be highly sophisticated and may appear genuine at first glance.
Understanding common risks can help you protect yourself and others.
What Is a Scam?
A scam is an attempt to trick someone into:
- giving away money;
- sharing personal information;
- revealing passwords;
- providing banking details;
- transferring funds;
- undertaking activities that benefit criminals.
Scams may occur:
- online;
- by email;
- through social media;
- by text message;
- over the phone;
- in person.
Common Signs of a Scam
Be cautious if someone:
- creates a sense of urgency;
- pressures you to act immediately;
- requests money unexpectedly;
- asks for passwords or security information;
- promises unusually high rewards;
- asks you to keep something secret;
- claims an offer is only available for a limited time;
- requests payment using unusual methods.
If something feels wrong, pause and seek advice.
Phishing and Cyber Scams
Phishing is one of the most common forms of fraud.
Criminals send messages that appear to come from trusted organisations.
Examples include:
- banks;
- universities;
- delivery companies;
- government agencies;
- online retailers.
The aim is often to obtain:
- passwords;
- financial information;
- personal details.
Before clicking links:
- check the sender carefully;
- look for unusual wording;
- verify requests independently;
- avoid sharing login credentials.
The University will never ask you to provide passwords by email.
Student Accommodation Scams
Students are frequently targeted by accommodation fraud.
Warning signs include:
- requests for deposits before viewing properties;
- landlords unwilling to meet or provide documentation;
- unusually low rental prices;
- pressure to transfer money quickly;
- listings copied from other websites.
Always verify accommodation through reputable sources before making payments.
Employment and Recruitment Scams
Fraudsters sometimes advertise fake jobs designed to obtain money or personal information.
Be cautious if:
- you are offered a job without an interview;
- significant earnings are promised for little work;
- you are asked to pay upfront fees;
- employers request bank details before formal recruitment processes.
Legitimate employers rarely require payment from applicants.
Money Mule Recruitment
Criminals sometimes recruit students and young adults to move money through their bank accounts.
This is known as being a money mule.
Individuals may be told:
- "You can earn easy money."
- "We're helping transfer funds."
- "Just receive and forward payments."
Participating in these activities can lead to:
- bank account closure;
- financial losses;
- criminal investigation;
- long-term impacts on future employment and financial services.
Never allow your bank account to be used by another person.
Romance and Relationship Scams
Scammers sometimes build online relationships over weeks or months before requesting money.
Common warning signs include:
- reluctance to meet in person;
- requests for financial help;
- stories involving emergencies;
- repeated requests for transfers or gifts.
Trust your instincts and seek advice if something feels unusual.
Visa, Immigration and International Student Scams
International students may be targeted by individuals claiming to represent:
- immigration authorities;
- visa agencies;
- government departments;
- educational institutions.
You should never feel pressured into making immediate payments or sharing sensitive information.
If contacted unexpectedly:
- verify the source independently;
- contact official organisations directly;
- seek advice from University support services.
Modern Slavery and Exploitation
Not all exploitation involves scams.
Some individuals are coerced, controlled or manipulated into:
- forced labour;
- domestic servitude;
- criminal exploitation;
- financial exploitation.
Warning signs may include:
- someone controlling your finances;
- restricted freedom of movement;
- threats or intimidation;
- debt-based control;
- pressure to undertake illegal activities.
If you are concerned about exploitation, support is available.
Artificial Intelligence and Deepfake Scams
Advances in technology have made scams more convincing.
Criminals may use:
- cloned voices;
- manipulated images;
- fake videos;
- AI-generated messages.
Always verify unusual requests independently, particularly those involving money or sensitive information.
What Should I Do If I Think I Have Been Scammed?
Stop Communication
Do not send further information or money.
Protect Your Accounts
Change passwords and secure affected accounts.
Contact Your Bank
If money or financial information has been shared.
Preserve Evidence
Keep emails, messages and screenshots.
Report the Incident
Depending on the circumstances, you may wish to report the matter to:
- Action Fraud
- The Police
- Your bank
- University support services
Seek Support
Being targeted by a scam can be upsetting and embarrassing.
Remember that scams are designed to deceive people.
Support is available.
What If I Am Worried About Someone Else?
You may notice that a friend, colleague or student is:
- being pressured for money;
- involved in suspicious activities;
- sharing concerning information online;
- becoming involved in exploitative situations.
If you are concerned:
- speak to them if appropriate;
- encourage them to seek advice;
- raise a concern where there may be safeguarding risks.
Staying Safe
Simple steps can significantly reduce risk:
- think before clicking links;
- verify requests independently;
- use strong passwords;
- enable multi-factor authentication;
- protect personal information;
- be cautious of unexpected requests;
- seek advice when unsure.
Remember
Scammers rely on urgency, secrecy and pressure.
Taking a moment to pause, verify information and seek advice can often prevent harm.
If something does not feel right, trust your instincts and ask for help.