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30 September 2022

Beware current scams targeting Chinese international students

We have been advised from other universities that there is a sophisticated financial scam currently targeting international students from China. These scams are designed to extort large sums of money from students and their families. 

How do I recognise this scam?

Scammers posing as Chinese Embassy officials have been contacting students to advise them they are suspects in a money-laundering case, providing images of their IDs with their personal information and stating they will face imprisonment if they do not cooperate. 

Using this threat of arrest or deportation, they are requesting copies of passports and visas, as well as large sums of money.   

What should I do if I am contacted with this type of request?

If you receive contact via phone, text, or email from anyone claiming to be from the Chinese Embassy, Australian Embassy or other government official, do not respond. You must not send these people any money or provide your personal, credit card or online account details.  

How can I protect myself from scams?  

Please be especially wary of any unsolicited or unexpected communications you receive and think before you click in emails – these scams can be sophisticated and look legitimate.  

You can also download the Scams Awareness Toolkit to learn more about how to identify fraudulent behaviour and scams. 

Do you need more support?

We encourage you to contact Student Central for advice.  



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