FBI Warns of Scams Targeting Chinese Students/Scholars at U.S. Universities

FBI Warns of Scams Targeting Chinese Students/Scholars at U.S. Universities

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) published a warning about a current scam targeting Chinese communities in the U.S., including Chinese students attending U.S. colleges and universities.

The scam involves being contacted by individuals initially claiming to be from the Chinese Embassy or Consulate, or U.S. business, claiming that funds are owed to resolve an issue.  Further contacts are individuals claiming to be from police back in China. 

Please read the full announcement available here:  https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/washingtondc/news/fbi-washington-field-office-warns-of-scam-targeting-chinese-communities-in-the-us

Be sure to take extreme caution if you are contacted by someone claiming to be a U.S., or foreign, government official.  Do not provide any personal information or financial information over the phone.


The ISO has additional guidance on protecting yourself from scams and how to report to the ISO if you are contacted by anyone claiming to be a government official (https://iso.mit.edu/life-at-mit/campus-safety/scams-and-fraud/).

If any questions arise, please contact your Advisor at the MIT International Students Office or MIT International Scholars Office.