FAQ 2344
Scams and fraud

Scams are often targeted at students to gain personal information or money, and can be by email, text, phone, social media, or in-person.

Common scams include parcel delivery scams, cryptocurrency and online trading scams, HMRC or gov.uk scams.

Financial scams are often aimed at international students, which can include National Insurance, tuition or visa fees, foreign exchange rates, Home Office fines, gift cards, or 'virtual kidnapping' scams from fake embassies.

If you have been contacted by someone that you are unsure is legitimate, or put under pressure, do not give out any personal or bank details. Read our Scams and fraud webpage which provides practical advice to help you avoid scams and fraud. 

You may also find the following information relevant:

 - Scams targeting international students

 - Scam targeting Chinese students

BU offers wellbeing support for victims or potential victims of scam and fraud:

Achieve@BU

SUBU Advice 

Our website also provides useful information on safeguarding

If as a result of a scam or fraud, you are unable to meet your daily living costs you may find some helpful information on our financial support pages. Please contact AskBU for further information.