Scam calls targeting international students

There have been scam calls going around targeting international students. They are individuals falsely identifying themselves as Homeland Security, ICE, USCIS, or the Police. These callers claim that the student is “out of status” or facing immigration issues, causing unnecessary panic. Scammers also can make any phone number show up on your phone. This is called spoofing. They usually use phone numbers of ICE, USCIS, etc. With this tactic, they try to make you believe that they are calling from those agencies.

There is no way to stop these people from calling you, but you can protect yourself from these scammers. Please know that government agencies will never call you if there’s any update about your immigration status.

If you receive a scam call,

• Do not engage with the caller. Hang up immediately.
• Do not share any personal information. Government agencies will never request personal details over the phone. Do not give them your bank information, SSN number, etc.

If you are ever uncertain about a call, please contact International Services for guidance. If you receive a scam call, please let us know.