Under the cover of the application process, impostersUnscrupulously exploited applicants
In a concerning development, the Khabarovsk Krai Today news agency, in collaboration with the Safe Internet League, has reported an ongoing fraudulent scheme that has targeted applicants during the admissions campaign in the region.
The scheme involves imposters posing as admissions committee members, reaching out to victims via phone calls, emails, or social media. These messages, designed to appear as if they come from the university's rector or other staff members, request personal data, codes, and money.
One method used by the scammers is to send messages about an account breach, urging the victim to call a "tech support number." Once connected, they demand money for a "secure account."
Another approach involves sending letters asking for confirmation of data, personal information, or electronic application submission for admission. To fix the supposed issue, the imposter asks the victim to schedule an appointment, requiring an SMS code for access to their Gosuslugi profile.
The total amount of money stolen through these schemes in Khabarovsk Krai remains undisclosed, but reports suggest that over 30 million rubles have been stolen from residents within a week.
To protect yourself from these scams, experts advise recognising common signs such as unsolicited contact offering guaranteed admission or scholarships in exchange for personal data or upfront payments, requests for sensitive data, offers that seem too good to be true, and pressure tactics urging immediate payment or secrecy.
It is essential to verify official sources by checking admission campaign details directly from official university websites or recognised government education portals in Khabarovsk Krai. Be wary of third-party ads or unsolicited offers online that are not linked to legitimate institutions.
Protecting your personal data is crucial. Do not share sensitive information over unsecure channels, use strong, unique passwords for educational portals, and enable two-factor authentication if available.
Legitimate institutions will not ask for large payments before any formal admission process. Cross-check any payment requests via official accounts and contact the university or agency directly through trusted means.
If you suspect you are targeted by a scam, report the activity to local law enforcement or consumer protection agencies. Inform your educational institution so they can alert other prospective students.
Stay informed with local news and official announcements in the region about admissions campaigns, as legitimate campaigns are typically publicly announced by universities or local education authorities.
Authorities are urged to take action against these fraudsters to protect the public and prevent further financial losses. The scheme continues to evolve, with new methods being used to deceive victims. It is crucial for individuals to be vigilant and verify the authenticity of any communication that requests personal information or money, especially during the admissions campaign.
- In the realm of education-and-self-development, it's imperative for students in Khabarovsk Krai to be cautious of fraudulent schemes during admissions campaigns, as scammers have been known to impersonate admissions committee members and request personal data or money.
- General-news outlets in Khabarovsk Krai, such as the Khabarovsk Krai Today news agency, have reported on these ongoing crime-and-justice issues, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and taking protective measures against these schemes.
