Don’t get played: the scams to know about this term
Welcome to Stirling if you’re just arriving, and welcome back if you’re returning! Whether you’re still finding your way around campus or already know the best spot in the library, there’s one thing worth a few minutes of your time before term gets busy: scams.
Scammers love students. You’re juggling new bank accounts, rent, part-time jobs and about a hundred emails a day, and they’re counting on you being too busy to spot something dodgy. So, here’s a quick guide to staying one step ahead.
Spot the red flags
Most scams give themselves away with at least one of these:
- It comes out of nowhere.
- It sounds too good to be true.
- It’s rushing you, or threatening you with fines, arrest or deportation.
- It wants your bank details, password or a one-time code.
- It wants paying by bank transfer, gift cards or crypto.
- It tells you to keep it secret.
Spot any of these? Pause. Hanging up or ignoring a message is always allowed.
Five scams doing the rounds
The “discount” on your fees. Someone offers you or your family a cheeky discount on tuition fees. Sounds great, until they pay with a stolen card, pocket your money, and the payment bounces. You’re out of pocket and you still owe your fees. Only ever pay through the University’s official options.
“Easy money” for using your account. A post, a job ad or even a mate offers you cash to let money pass through your bank account. That money is almost always stolen, which makes you a “money mule”. Even if you didn’t know, you could be prosecuted and have your account shut down. Easy money isn’t worth it.
The flat that doesn’t exist. Perfect location, great price, and the landlord just needs a quick deposit before you view it. Spoiler: there is no flat. Never pay for somewhere you haven’t seen in person.
The “your account is locked” email. A message says your account or student finance payment has a problem and asks you to log in. The link takes you to a fake site that steals your password. Skip the link and go to the official website yourself.