Protecting students from financial fraud: important tips

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Tiếng Việt

Protecting students from financial fraud: important tips

This article aims to equip parents with essential information about common types of scams and offers practical strategies to protect students from financial fraud. The goal is to empower parents and families with the knowledge they need to prevent falling victim to fraudulent activities, ensuring their financial security and well-being throughout the university experience.

Recently, RMIT University has received students' reports regarding incidents of phone scams and extortion. Despite the long-standing prevalence of such activities and prior warnings issued by relevant authorities and the University, many students continue to fall victim to these fraudulent schemes.

A close-up of a smartphone screen showing an incoming call from "Unknown," with the options to answer or reject the call.

The scenarios of phone scams are diverse and sophisticated. A typical tactic involves falsely accusing students of being involved in a criminal case and asking to disclose personal information or transfer money to avoid prosecution. Certain scammers pose as RMIT staff or officials from relevant authorities, asserting that students are required to transfer money in order to meet the deadline of tuition fees payment, secure scholarships, study abroad programs, or exchange opportunities. Additionally, there have been cases where scammers request sensitive information such as student ID numbers, bank card details, CVV codes, OTPs, or other personal data.

Therefore, it is essential to raise awareness and exercise vigilance when receiving unfamiliar phone calls to avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.

Why are university students the primary targets?

With the rapid enhancement of technology and online platforms, fraudulent schemes have become increasingly sophisticated, particularly targeting inexperienced university students. Students in major urban centers such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are especially vulnerable to scams due to their transition to new environments and the limitation in robust psychological support. This causes university students more anxiety when confronted with legal allegations (according to Journal of Science and Technology 2021). Leveraging this psychological vulnerability, scammers frequently use fraudulent calls, emails, and messages, accompanied by threats and fake documents, to create disorientation and pressure students into making hasty decisions.

Important actions when encountering scams

As reported by Tuoi Tre Online 2024, phone scams are becoming increasingly regular and sophisticated, causing significant harm to victims. Consequently, the University encourages parents to share this information with students to help them remain vigilant and alert. Furthermore, parents are advised to guide their students in recognising and preventing scams through the following measures:

Trust the official sources of information: Always refer to and verify information through RMIT's official channels regarding student exchange programs, scholarships, tuition payment methods, and other related matters.
Protect personal information: Secure student ID number, bank card details, and other personal information. Do not share this data on social media or with unfamiliar individuals.
Stop and verify: If in doubt, stop and calmly check the information. Verify with the University and always refer to the official payment method page for details before making any payments or transfers. If students have safety concerns or would like help developing a safety plan, encourage them to contact Safer Community for advice and support.
Students can also seek support from RMIT Counselling and Psychological Services if the experience is causing distress.
And to request an investigation, parents and students may contact local police.

In addition, parents can further encourage students to learn more about staying safe online and how to remain vigilant or read more here about Common scams targeting students.

To conclude, the University encourages parents to remain open and provide strong emotional support, so that students feel confident in seeking guidance when necessary. With this support, we believe parents can play a crucial role in helping their children stay vigilant, focus on their studies, develop independence, and avoid becoming the next victims of fraudulent activities.

Story: Thanh T.

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