What types of scams target international students?

Common ProblemsGetting Started as a Student
Written By Robin Catmur-Smith

FAQ.

Answered by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center

Last updated: July, 2026

 

What types of scams target international students?

Scammers target international students because you may still be learning U.S. systems. The most common types of scams are government-impersonation, housing, job-offer, phishing, tuition, social-media, and romance scams arriving by phone, text, email, social media, or in person.

 

Common scam types

  • Government impersonation — someone posing as an immigration or customs officer, the IRS, or police demanding immediate payment to avoid "deportation" or "arrest."

  • Housing — a too-good listing where you're asked to pay a deposit before seeing the place (which may not exist).

  • Job offer — an offer you never applied for, or being asked to pay for training/equipment.

  • Social media/online — threats to share photos, money requests via apps, or hacked accounts.

  • Phishing — official-looking emails, texts, or sites built to steal your information.

  • Tuition — claims your payment "didn't go through," asking you to re-pay via gift cards or wire transfer.

  • Romance — an online relationship that turns into requests for money.

Scams are designed to create fear or excitement so you react quickly. If unsure, double-check with your international office before responding.

Robin Catmur-Smith
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