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Don't get caught out - beware of these scams

That perfect flat or job that seems too good to be true can be hard to resist, but beware of these common scams and avoid putting yourself at risk….

Employment scams

Having a job should never cost you money, and you should never be required to use your own bank account to conduct business for someone else. Any job that requires you to receive money into your account that is not payment for work you have done should be treated as highly suspicious.

Scammers explain the need to do this in a variety of ways:

  • "I’ll send you a cheque and then you use the money to pay some of my bills in the UK."
  • "Our clients do a lot of international money transfers and we want you to understand the customer experience."
  • "We need an Account Manager in the UK to set up a UK bank account and manage our funds there, it is urgent so we will use your account to begin with whilst you are on trial."

Scammers are deceitful enough to find their way on to legitimate employment sites. If you have any questions or concerns about vacancies on the University’s Careers Service SAGE (Student and Graduate Employment) database then get in touch on 0131 6506 688 or by emailing the SAGE team:

Email hack scams

Many people have received fake emails from those abroad asking for cash help. But did you know that students also receive them from fake University accounts? Scammers hack email accounts and can send seemingly legitimate correspondence from people you know asking for money.

If you receive emails asking for help, think about why the person asking has chosen you. Are you really the only person they can turn to? Check the sender really is who they say they are, especially if it is coming from an unfamiliar account.

Accommodation scams

Never rent from anyone who is not a registered landlord, and you should not have to show proof of funds before viewing a flat.

Wiring money is almost as hard to trace as sending an envelope of cash! If a potential landlord asks you to perform a money transfer via Western Union or other such money transfer companies then stop to think about who you are sending it to and why.

Further support and advice

Be mindful that you are your best defence against scams. If you are unsure of the authenticity of an email, accommodation or job offer then take five minutes to talk to the team at the Advice Place. It could save you hours of stress, and a lot of money.

Telephone: 0131 650 9225 / 0800 206 2341, text: 07537 402004 or email:

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