Tips to Avoid Scams and Fraud
The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have reported an increase in the number of scams targeting international students. Often scammers pretend to be government officials in order to obtain personal identifying information and money. They might already know information about you when they call, or they may try to scare you by threatening that you will be arrested or deported if you don't pay immediately.
As an international student in the U.S., it is important that you remain aware of your rights and duties and have clear information about immigration requirements and money management.
The tricks that scammers use are very sophisticated, and it is easy for anyone to fall victim. Protect yourself from scams.
Tips
If payment is needed, you will a letter on official stationary requesting payment.
Keep your documents in a safe place. You do not need to carry your card around with you.
In the United States, official government websites include ".gov" in the web address. All application forms are free to download.
Reporting a suspected scam will not negatively affect your immigration status. You have the right to protect yourself against identity theft and fraud.
Do not provide identifying information or bank information. If you have any doubts about whether it is a scam or a real government official, ask for the caller's information and a call back number, then call or email ISSS so that we can help you report the scam.
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