Scams are becoming increasingly complex so students need to stay aware of phishing/smishing/vishing attempts, identity threats, AI-generated images, employment, imposter and romance scams, fake QR codes, and spoofing. The Office of International Student Resources and Engagement (OISRE) has gathered information that international students should review.
- Read information from Case Western Reserve University's [U]tech about phishing.
- OISRE offers lunch and learn sessions to help international students stay aware of identity fraud and scams, facilitated by bank representatives and the CWRU Public Safety Office. These events will be scheduled through CampusGroups.
- PNC, one of Case Western Reserve University's (CWRU) banking partners, offers monthly webinars on money matters. These include making good choices about personal credit use, budgeting, and setting up an emergency fund for unexpected expenses. Learn more with PNC’s MyFinanceAcademy.
Common scams include:
Foreign-born residents have also been targeted by criminals posting as employees of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS, ICE, USCIS, Border Patrol, etc.). Through the use of threats, blackmailers convince people to reveal personal data (social security number, date of birth, banking information). It is important to know that no U.S. agencies will contact students directly and ask for such information, and students should avoid sharing any personal information via phone or email unless you are 100% confident about the contact. If you are feeling uncertain, please reach out to the Office of International Student Resources and Engagement before revealing personal information or paying any requested funds. Students have been scammed and have lost thousands of dollars.
If you are the victim or know of another international student who is the victim of a scam or identity theft, please contact the Office of International Student Resources and Engagement at +216.368.2399 or email: international@case.edu. You can also reach out after-hours, call CWRU Police at +216.368.3300.
You can also report any cyber-related crime to the The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), the central hub for reporting cyber-enabled crime. It is run by the FBI, the lead federal agency for investigating crime.