Edinburgh University issue guidance to Chinese students after police give warning over potential phone scam

The University of Edinburgh have issued guidance to Chinese students after police gave a warning over a potential phone scam which is currently targeting them.

The University has warned of the phone scam targeting Chinese students

The advice from university states: “Please be alert to potential fraudulent phone calls, text or voice messages from individuals pretending to represent organisations such as your governments embassy, police, prosecutor’s office, court or any United Kingdom government agency.

“The phone number may be disguised and although appearing correct it could be a scam.

“If you receive such a call requesting personal information or bank account details you should end the call immediately, do not return it using redial and never transfer money by any method even if requested to do so.

“If you have already sent money you should contact your bank and the local police.

“Staff from the University of Edinburgh Security Section, Edinburgh Global and the Students Association’s Advice Place can offer support and assistance if required.”

The advice leaflet from the university contains a translation of the message.

If students have already sent money they are asked to contact the local police using 101 and those looking for further advice have been asked to contact your local police station, local Crime Prevention Officer at [email protected], or the Police Scotland website.