New financial scam targeting students
Posted on 19 December 2019
Students have been targeted in a scam where they, their parents or sponsor are approached by someone offering to pay their tuition or accommodation fees at a good exchange rate or discount. Students have then handed over thousands of pounds, believing they were saving money.
The University never offers discounts on tuition or accommodation fees through third parties.
At first the scheme seems legitimate and the fees look as though they have been paid. However the scammers use fake or stolen credit cards, so these payments end up being rejected. The student actually ends up paying more because they have paid the scammer but still owe the University money.
Be vigilant
Read scammers - they’re after your money to find out about other scams targeting all students - not just international students.
What to do if you think you’ve been targeted
If you think you or one of your friends have been targeted by scammers, contact the Student Hub as soon as possible. Please be aware that the Student Hub closes at 4pm on Tuesday 24 December 2019 for the holidays, but opens again at 10am on Thursday 2 January 2020.
Student Hub
Market Square
+44 (0)1904 324140
student-hub@york.ac.uk
Remember, you should never disclose your University passwords or share your University IT accounts with anyone.