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Scams

A scam is dishonest scheme performed by an individual, group, or company to try and take your money or something else valuable. These are criminals who are lying to you to try and steal your money.  

 

How Scams Work

We have heard from international students and scholars at MSU that they have received phone calls or emails from strangers who pretend to be government officials. Typically these people will say they are from the IRS, FBI, or Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and they threaten that they will deport you or arrest you if you don't transfer money to them right away. 

Recently, students and scholars have been targeted via social media, such as Facebook or Instagram, with offers of money, fame, and housing scams. If an unknown individual offers to send you money, or requests money from you, via social media please discontinue contact and block them immediately. Please contact your local police to notify of them of the scam. 

Warning Signs of Scam Calls

  1. The caller becomes increasingly aggressive and threatening.
  2. The caller demands immediate payment over the phone or wants you to wire transfer money into an account.
  3. The caller threatens your immigration status due to not paying their required amount.
  4. The caller clams they are agents from your home country's government, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) or other governmental agency and will send the U.S. Police Department to arrest you if you do not follow their instructions.

More Information on Scams

Please see USCIS website for information on common scams, where to find help, where to report scams, etc.

Contact MSU Police or OISS if you receive suspicious call or email.

Scam Alert: Chinese Police Imposters Incorporate Aggressive Tactics to Target U.S.-Based Chinese Community