International students are often targeted by scams related to immigration. The immigration scams exploit the students’ by tricking study abroad aspirants with fraudulent documentation. Students may unknowingly pay tuition fees and become victims of visa fraud. They may claim connections or influence with immigration authorities but do not deliver on their promises once the money is paid.
Scammers use various tactics to deceive students, such as:-
- Creating fake universities or schools that offer visas or work permits. These institutions are often not accredited and may provide fraudulent documentation.
- offering guaranteed visas or work permits in exchange for a large fee.
- Providing outdated or incorrect information or submitting fraudulent applications on behalf of students.
- Offering fake documents, such as acceptance letters, transcripts, or language test results, to support fraudulent visa applications. It will put students at risk of legal consequences and visa rejection.
- Promising international students high-paying jobs and helping them obtain work visas.
Types of Scams
1. Student Accommodation Scam
A student accommodation scam targeting overseas education involves fraudulent individuals or organizations that exploit international students by offering fake or substandard housing options. These scams typically aim to deceive students, extract money, or provide inadequate accommodation services. Scammers may offer accommodations at low prices that seem too good. They may use this tactic to attract students and persuade them to make quick payments without proper verification. Scammers may use misleading or stolen photos and descriptions of properties to advertise their accommodations. They may exaggerate the quality, location, or amenities to lure students into making deposits or signing contracts.
To protect yourself from student accommodation scams:
- Research reputable housing options: Use websites, student housing agencies, or university-provided accommodation services. These sources often have verified listings and established relationships with landlords.
- Verify the landlord or housing agency: Research the landlord or housing agency’s credentials and reputation. Check for reviews or testimonials from other students who have previously rented from them.
- Use secure payment methods: Avoid making cash payments or wiring money directly to individuals. Use secure payment methods from reputable currency exchange and send money abroad service providers that offer buyer protection whenever possible.
2. Scholarship Scam
A scholarship scam targeting overseas education involves fraudulent individuals or organizations that deceive international students by offering fake scholarships or financial aid opportunities. These scams aim to extort money or obtain personal information for identity theft. Scammers may contact students directly through email, social media, or phone calls, claiming they have been selected for a scholarship they did not apply for. Scammers may ask for upfront fees, processing charges, or administrative costs in exchange for the scholarship. Scammers may ask for personal information such as social security numbers, passport details, or bank account information.
Legitimate scholarships do not require students to pay money to receive the award. Be cautious of guaranteed scholarships or financial aid promises without evaluating academic or personal qualifications.
To protect yourself from scholarship scams:
- Seek scholarships from reputable sources such as government agencies, educational institutions, recognized foundations, or established organizations. Research their legitimacy and ensure they have a track record of providing scholarships.
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- If you receive a scholarship offer, independently verify the organization’s authenticity. Check their official website, contact the educational institution or embassy directly, and contact academic advisors or student services offices for confirmation.
- Never provide sensitive personal information to unknown individuals or organizations without proper verification.
- Review official websites, established scholarship portals, and recognized educational institutions for scholarship information.
3. Virtual Kidnapping Scam
Virtual kidnapping scams are criminal schemes where individuals or groups attempt to extort money from victims by falsely claiming that a family member or loved one has been kidnapped. While this type of scam is not specific to overseas education, international students can also be targeted. In a virtual kidnapping scam, the scammers often use fear and urgency to manipulate their victims. They may call or send messages claiming to have kidnapped a family member, providing demands for ransom or immediate payment. The goal is to make the victim act quickly without verifying the situation.
What to do:
- While on the call, avoid disclosing personal information about yourself or your family members. Instead, ask the alleged kidnappers to provide proof of the situation. Request to speak with the kidnapped person directly or ask for specific details that only the alleged victim would know.
- If you receive a virtual kidnapping call, contact your family members immediately to verify their safety. Use alternative communication channels, such as texting or messaging apps, to reach out to your loved ones. Do not use the phone number provided by the alleged kidnappers.
- Scammers may demand ransom or immediate payment. Do not provide any financial information or make any payments unless you have independently verified the situation and confirmed the safety of your family member.
- Contact local law enforcement and report the incident as soon as possible.
- Raise awareness among your family members about virtual kidnapping scams. Discuss the warning signs, preventive measures, and steps to take if such a situation arises. Being informed can reduce the risk of falling victim to this type of scam.
4. Visa phone scam
Visa phone scams targeting overseas education are fraudulent schemes where scammers impersonate immigration officials or representatives and contact international students, making false claims about visa issues or opportunities. These scams aim to deceive students, extract money, or obtain personal and financial information.
Here’s how to protect yourself from visa phone scams:
- Scammers may use various tactics to appear legitimate and create a sense of urgency. They might claim problems with your visa, offer expedited processing for a fee, threaten deportation, or promise exclusive visa opportunities. Stay cautious if any call seems suspicious or too good to be true.
- If you receive a call from someone claiming to be an immigration official or visa representative, ask for their full name, department, and contact information. Legitimate officials will provide their identification details, and you can independently verify their credentials by contacting the official immigration office or embassy directly.
- Never share your personal, passport, or financial details over the phone unless you have verified the caller’s authenticity.
- Be cautious if the caller requests payment over the phone or asks for payment through non-traceable methods like wire transfers. Legitimate visa processes typically involve official payment channels and proper documentation.
5. Student loan scam
A student loan scam targeting overseas education involves fraudulent individuals or organizations that exploit students seeking financial assistance for their education. These scams aim to deceive students into paying fees for fake loans, providing personal information for identity theft, or offering unrealistic loan terms.
To safeguard yourself from scams related to student loans, follow these steps:
- Research and choose reputable lenders or financial institutions when seeking a student loan for overseas education. Stick to well-known banks, government-backed loan programs, or established educational loan providers with positive reviews and a track record of serving students.
- Be wary of unsolicited loan offers via email, phone, or social media. Legitimate lenders typically require an application process, and they don’t approach students out of the blue with loan offers.
- Before providing any personal information or agreeing to a loan offer, research the lender to verify their legitimacy.
- Before signing any loan agreement, it’s important to read and fully understand the terms and conditions.
- Legitimate lenders typically deduct any fees or charges from the loan disbursement rather than requiring upfront payment. Be cautious of lenders who demand upfront fees or request payment through non-traceable methods like wire transfers or gift cards.
Legitimate student loans involve a formal application process, transparent terms, and reputable lenders. Stay vigilant, conduct thorough research, and seek advice from trusted sources to ensure a safe and legitimate borrowing experience for your overseas education.
Don’t Play a Victim Card!
Familiarize yourself with the immigration laws, procedures, and requirements of the country you intend to study or immigrate to. Understand the legitimate processes and red flags that indicate potential scams. When seeking assistance from immigration consultants or agents, verify their credentials and legitimacy. Check if they are licensed, registered, or affiliated with reputable organizations. Rely on official government websites, embassy websites, and authorized immigration channels for accurate information and updates.
Before engaging with any immigration service provider or making financial commitments:
- Conduct thorough research.
- Check online reviews, testimonials, and forums to gather insights and feedback about their services and track records.
- Remember, being cautious, doing your due diligence, and seeking assistance from authorized and reputable sources are crucial to escaping immigration scams.
- Stay informed, trust reliable channels, and rely on your judgment to make intelligent decisions throughout the immigration process.
Be proactive, informed, and vigilant!
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