Police warn international students of common scams

A persona sits in front of two monitors, typing on a keyboard. (Supplied)

As Fraud Prevention Month continues, Barrie police are putting out a warning to international students as scammers tend to target them heavily.

It’s common for them to get scammed due to their possible unfamiliarity with Canadian systems, housing practices and financial processes.

Police say international students are most often targeted when they are searching for housing, employment or educational supports.

Rental fraud

In the case of rental fraud, police say scammers will pressure the student to act fast, they might refuse an in-person viewing or make up excuses for not being able to meet. The student could also be asked to send a deposit for first and last month’s rent for a unit that doesn’t exist, isn’t available or isn’t even owned by the person advertising it.

“Within the last year, Barrie Police has recorded over $100,000 in losses to rental scams that target international students. If you are unsure or unaware of the processes, please reach out to your student support office at your local College or University for further direction and assistance,” stated Detective Kris Nicholson with the Barrie Police Service Fraud Unit. “As always, you are welcome to contact the Barrie Police Service at anytime for guidance and assistance as well.”

Other common student scams

Police are alerting students of some of the other common scams like fake job offers, tuition payment scams and impersonation scams where fraudsters will pretend to be a government official, bank or immigration representative.

Things to look out for include the scammer saying there’s an urgent issue with the student’s visa, taxes or student status along with pressure to send money. The way that scammers will ask for money is most commonly in the form of gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers or e-transfers.

Protect yourself

Police say to always be cautious of messages from strangers, specifically those that create a sense of urgency, fear and promise results.

Authorities are reminding international students that legitimate landlords, employers, banks and government agencies will not ask for a quick payment or give threats for not providing documentation.

When looking for a rental property, police say landlords should always provide the option for students to come see it in person before any money needs to get sent.

International students are advised to research jobs for themselves, never give money to someone who claims to be an employer and be cautious when giving out personal banking information. Never send out personal information like passport details, study permits or banking information to strangers.

Report a scam

Police say if you feel you have been scammed, report it to police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.