Scam Prevention for International Students

Learn how to recognize and avoid common fraud schemes

-By Charles Givens

October 30, 2024

Duke University urges its international students to be extremely careful to avoid scams and phishing attempts that target them. These schemes often take advantage of students who are unfamiliar with U.S. laws, have language barriers or are worried about their visa status.

Common scams include:

IRS Impersonation: Scammers posing as Internal Revenue Service (IRS) agents demand quick payment for tax debts, often using scare tactics like threatening deportation or calling the local police to make arrests. The IRS will never contact via phone or email. The IRS communicate primarily through traditional mail methods.

USCIS Imposters: Fraudsters claiming to be United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officials may request personal information or money to expedite visa processing or prevent deportation. USCIS advises students to verify any communication through official channels and never share sensitive information over the phone or via unsolicited email. Check their website here for the most reported scams: uscis.gov/scams-fraud-and-misconduct/avoid-scams/common-scams

Rental Scams: Students seeking off-campus housing are sometimes targeted with fake listings requiring upfront payment for non-existent properties. Verify listings through reputable sources and never wire money without physically inspecting the property.

Phishing Emails: These deceptive emails often appear to be from legitimate organizations like Duke, banks or online services. They aim to steal login credentials, financial information or personal data. Phishing emails can also be designed to scare students into paying like this recent phishing scam at Duke: security.duke.edu/news/email-extortion-attacks. Be wary of emails containing suspicious links or attachments and always verify the sender’s address before clicking anything in the email. Use Duke’s “Report” button in Outlook with such emails.

“We all need to exercise caution when being asked for personal information, whether on the phone, email or in the mail” said Eve Duffy, Associate Vice Provost for Global Affairs. “Unfortunately, our international students can be more at risk because of their unfamiliarity with U.S. norms and customs. It’s best to be cautious rather than putting yourself in harm’s way.”

Staying Vigilant

Be skeptical: Approach unsolicited offers or requests with caution. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Verify: Always independently verify any communication requesting personal information or payment, especially if it comes via phone or email. Contact the organization directly through official channels.

Protect your information: Never share financial details or other sensitive information over the phone or via unsolicited email.

Report suspicious activity: Report any suspected scams to Duke Office of Information Technology at oit.duke.edu/help or learn where to report a scams at this official government site: usa.gov/where-report-scams

Duke University has the resources to help navigate the challenges of being an international student. Reach out to the Duke International Student Center, your academic advisor or the Duke Police Department for any questions or concerns.