Protect Yourself from Scams: Important Tips for International Students
We want to help you avoid common scams targeting international students in the U.S. Scammers may pretend to be from U.S. government agencies, claiming that legal action is being taken against you, your degree is at risk, or your immigration status will be revoked. Don’t fall for these tricks!
Watch this video to learn how to identify scam calls:
Watch video
How to Spot a Scam:
Scammers may pretend to be employees of agencies like the DHS, IRS, ICE, FBI, CBP, USCIS, a U.S. Consulate or even ASU.
If you get a suspicious call:
- Don’t share personal or financial information.
- Don’t send money or buy gift cards (e.g., Google Pay, iTunes, Bitcoin).
- End the conversation immediately.
- Contact the ISSC by phone or email for help.
- Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Check out these resources to help avoid scams:
- Social Security number scams
- USCIS tips to avoid scams
- Study in the states
- Federal Trade Commission
- U.S. News & World Report: 3 Tips for International Students to Avoid Scams
- Newsweek: U.S. scammers threaten international students with deportation
Remember:
- U.S. government agencies won’t contact you by phone or email. They usually use regular mail for official messages.
- If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam, notify the ISSC right away.