Students are twice as likely to be scammed than any other customer.*
With everything that's going on in your world, you're probably used to speeding through everyday tasks like shopping online.
But it pays to stop and pause before parting with any of your money.
Hear what other students think about scams
“I recently bought a ticket from a scammer, and he wasn’t too pushy, he was actually quite friendly."
Student, 19
“You feel like you’re stupid for being...part of a scam or something.”
Student, 19
“...When I think about fraud, I think about big scams. But to see it's for things like trainers and shoes? That’s something that I buy. It’s not something that I would necessarily associate with a scam.”
Student, 20
Don't become a money mule
Moving money through your account might seem innocent enough, and you might even have mates that have done it, but it can be illegal. If you’re paid to move money from one account to another it’s known as ‘money muling’ – and it’s a form of money laundering.
Here's how it works:
- Scammers will often reach out on social media. They’ll offer you a job or the chance to make some easy money – and that’s probably really tempting before the student loans kick in. They’ll only mention the moving money part later.
- Getting involved helps fund crime. More often than not, you’ll be helping scammers to fund crimes including drugs and human trafficking. You might even be helping move money that’s been stolen from your family, friends or fellow students.
- Look out for direct messages, comments or even job offers. Be careful on social media like Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). Often, they’ll mention they’ve helped other people make money fast.
So, pause and remember: never let anyone move money through your account.
It could cost you more than pounds. You might get kicked out of Uni, or be prosecuted with a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison. It’s just not worth the risk.
Other common scams
So what can you do?
Don't get played, press pause and remember:
One last thing. Remember the student loan company, your bank and the police will never call to tell you to move your money to another account.
* Data based on the average fraud rate for students compared to other Bank of Scotland customers.