International Students Fall Victim to Growing Scam Threat
International students in the USA face a growing threat from scammers, with many struggling to distinguish legitimate communication from fraudulent attempts. A recent study reveals alarming figures: two-thirds of students admit to falling for scams, with one in four having their accounts compromised.
Scammers exploit students' fears, posing as officials or university staff to demand immediate action. In 2025, the U.S. government's visa revocations provided scammers with an opportunity to prey on anxious students. Over 40% of scams involved fake job offers or financial requests, with a third concerning fraudulent government messages.
Money theft was the primary goal, with scammers claiming unpaid tolls or delivery fees, or offering prizes or jobs that required upfront payments. Attackers used pressure and reward tactics, with a quarter facing threats or time limits, and another quarter promised benefits like gift cards or job openings. Students from the University of Cologne and the University of Passau were among those targeted. While universities are strengthening digital security, many students remain silent about scams due to uncertainty, fear, or dependence on the visa system. Reactions vary, with some deleting messages, others alerting IT staff, and a few filing reports with federal agencies. Phones, emails, and texts are the primary channels used by scammers.
The prevalence of scams targeting international students in the USA is a cause for concern. Universities must enhance security measures and awareness campaigns to protect students. Students should be encouraged to report scams without fear of repercussions, and clear guidelines on official communication should be established. By working together, universities and students can combat this growing threat.
