University is full of exciting experiences, and as students, we often juggle assignments, part-time jobs and social activities, making it easy to overlook red flags when it comes to scams. This article will highlight some of the most common scams affecting students, and offer some tips to protect yourself, and let you know what to do if you fall victim.

1. Phishing scams

One of the most common tactics scammers use to steal your personal information is phishing scams. This is when fraudsters will send emails or text messages impersonating your bank and asking you to click a link and enter your details to “verify” your account. These messages can look convincing but remember – banks will never ask for sensitive information via email or text. If you receive such a message, do not click the link. Instead, contact your bank directly to verify the messages’ authenticity.

2. Fraudulent phone calls

Another form of this is customers receiving fraudulent phone calls that appear to be from the legitimate number stated on their bank’s website. These calls often alert customers to fraudulent activity on their cards as an attempt to gain your bank account details. Similarly to phishing, banks will never do this, so hang up from these phone calls and reach out to your bank yourself or go to see them in branch to allow them to check that your account is fine.

3. Online shopping scams

Online shopping scams are also prevalent. There is an abundance of fake websites that look like well-known retailers and offer heavily discounted textbooks, electrical items, or clothes. Once you’ve paid, the products either never arrive, or you receive fake items. To avoid falling into this trap, check reviews of any online store you’re not familiar with, and always use secure payment methods like PayPal or credit cards, which offer buyer protection.

4. What to do if you fall victim to a scam

If you do fall victim to a scam, act quickly. Contact your bank immediately if you've shared financial details and report the incident. Don’t hesitate to seek support from the university’s student well-being services if you’re feeling overwhelmed. They can help you navigate the aftermath and offer advice on how to avoid similar situations in the future.

For additional information and to educate yourself, you can visit the National Cyber Security Centre at ncsc.gov.ukLink opens in a new window and this has a lot of information on protecting yourself online!

Staying safe online is all about awareness. Keep an eye out for red flags—like unsolicited messages or deals that sound too good to be true—and trust your instincts!

Further support available

For further money-related support, contact Student Funding Support by email (studentfunding@warwick.ac.uk), phone (024 7615 0096), or come to the Wellbeing Reception in Senate House (10 am-3 pm Monday-Friday).

Student Cookbook

Remember, one of the best ways you can save money as a student is to find some easy and cheap recipes. Our Student Money Assistants have a new recipe for Vegan Rice Paper Rolls in our Student Cookbook – great if you’re doing Veganuary this month!