An international student receives a phone call, message or video call from someone claiming to be a police officer or government official from the student’s home country. The caller often speaks the student’s native language and may appear to know detailed personal information about the student or the student’s family members, which can make the situation seem legitimate.
The caller tells the student that their name, passport or bank information has been connected to a serious crime, such as fraud or money laundering. The student may be told that they are under investigation and must cooperate with authorities to avoid arrest, deportation or legal consequences for themselves or their family members.
The scammer may demand that the student send money as "bail," a "security deposit" or a payment needed while the case is being investigated. In some cases, scammers require the student to participate in frequent phone or video calls and instruct the student not to tell anyone about the situation. The scammers can be extremely persistent and may pressure the student to send large sums of money through wire transfers, electronic payments, or other difficult-to-trace methods.
These callers are scammers attempting to create fear and urgency to obtain money. Legitimate law enforcement agencies will not demand immediate payment over the phone or require secrecy about an investigation.
If you receive a threatening call or message from someone claiming to be a government or law enforcement official from your home country, you should:
- End the conversation immediately.
- Do not give the scammers any personal or financial information.
- Do Not Transfer Money: Scammers often demand payments via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- Do not click on any links the scammer may text to you. Block the number in your phone.
- Verify Independently: If worried, contact your embassy, consulate or police in your home country directly through their official website, not through the contact info provided by the caller.
- Contact local law enforcement by calling the Ohio State University Police Division at +1 614-292-2121 or Columbus Police at +1 614-645-4545.
- Also contact Ohio State’s Office of International Affairs at iss@osu.edu or +1 614-292-6101.
For more guidance on avoiding scams, please visit Ohio State Student Legal Services (SLS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
If you believe you are the victim of any type of scam or fraudulent activity, please report it to the police and also schedule an appointment to speak to an SLS attorney.