Warning to Students over fraud scam

The Metropolitan Police have recently recorded a spate of fraud cases where suspects are approaching victims (predominantly students or young people) claiming they have lost their bank cards and urgently need to withdraw cash. They ask the victim if they can transfer money to them, then display what appears to be proof of payment on a banking app. The app, however, is fake, and no transfer is ever made. Believing the transaction has been completed, victims’ hand over cash, sometimes as much as £1,000. Key locations that are being targeted are shopping centres and train stations.

How can you stay safe?

Sometimes criminals target cash points in order to commit fraud. If you’re approached to make a transfer on behalf of someone else, stop.

• Decline to make the transaction and walk away.
• Do not withdraw cash on behalf of someone else, even if they say they will transfer you the money.
• Do not provide any personal information to people who approach you.

If you have been the victim of fraud, make a report to Report Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040. Find out more about what you’ll need to report and what happens after you report.

If you’ve lost money or you think a fraudster has access to your bank account, tell your bank or payment service provider as soon as possible so they can protect your account and help you get your money back. Always contact them directly using a known email or phone number, such as the ones shown on their website or the back of your card, or call 159.

The Metropolitan Police have provided an information sheet in a variety of Languages and these can be found below. If you have any further concerns or questions please contact the RSU Advice Service who can sign post you were appropriate.