Fraud prevention advice for Chinese students
The below highlights fraud types affecting the Chinese community and provides some advice for fraud victims.
Common types of fraud
Chinese Embassy Scam
The victim is contacted by a fraudster purporting to be from the Chinese Embassy or Chinese Police.
They will usually say that the victim has been involved in money laundering or other illegal activity and that they need to pay a significant amount of money, or else they will be imprisoned or deported.
Impersonation fraud
Fraudsters may pretend to be trusted officials, such as the bank or police. They may request your help with an “investigation” or insist that there is fraud occurring on your account.
They will convince you to transfer your money into a “safe account”, which will belong to the criminal, or hand it over to the criminal in person.
Rental fraud
Victims are tricked into paying an upfront fee to rent a property which does not exist, has already been rented out, or has been rented to multiple victims at the same time.
Money muling
Students are often recruited by criminals to launder money through their bank accounts. This will be advertised as a risk free and easy way to make money. In reality, they are being enticed into committing a criminal offence.
Investment fraud
Fraudsters are advertising fraudulent cryptocurrency investments on social media, promising attractive returns.
Seek independent financial advice before committing to any investment as it’s difficult to tell a genuine investment opportunity apart from a fraudulent one.
Phishing
Phishing texts and emails can come in many forms. For example, notifying you of an apparent failed parcel delivery.
Do not click on any links or attachments you are unsure of within a text or email or provide personal details. Texts can be forwarded to 7726 and emails to report phishing gov.uk
Reporting fraud
Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.
You can report fraud or cyber crime to Action Fraud any time of the day or night:
- Online – www.actionfraud.police.uk
- By ringing 0300 123 2040
Action Fraud also run a service which allows you to report fraud in your preferred language.
Support and advice
- Victim Support – 0808 168 9111
- Chinese Lantern Project – 0808 802 0012
Created in partnership with the Chinese Lantern Project
