Vietnamese Police Warn of Surge in Scams Targeting Students Before New Academic Year

Overview of Scams

According to Vietnamese police authorities, fraud and financial crimes targeting students and parents have increased significantly ahead of the new academic year, with tactics becoming increasingly sophisticated. Scammers exploit students' educational aspirations and parental anxiety to extract money and personal information through multiple fraud schemes.

Major Fraud Methods

1. School Fee Fraud

Fraudsters impersonate schools and classroom teachers by creating fake social media accounts on platforms like Zalo and Facebook. After collecting student and parent information, they establish fake family chat groups or parent groups, then present detailed fee lists—including tuition, uniforms, and class fees—demanding bank transfers.

Warning Signs:

• Verify payment requests directly with the school before transferring funds
• Confirm account authenticity with the school before responding to messages
• Resist pressure tactics like "immediate action required" or "limited-time discounts"

2. Student ID Fraud

Scammers impersonate commune police officers, claiming a student's identification number is incorrectly registered in the National Population Database. Exploiting this concern, they request national ID numbers, 12-digit student IDs, or links to install fake government service apps, leading to account takeovers and financial fraud.

Warning Signs:

• Always correct official identification records through legitimate government offices
• Never install apps from suspicious links or unverified sources
• Independently verify any requests for personal information supposedly from police or government agencies

3. Online Kidnapping Fraud

Scammers create fake websites and social media accounts impersonating universities, scholarship programs, and international student exchange initiatives. After students register, they offer scholarships or job positions while collecting personal information and identity documents. Subsequently, they pose as police or prosecutors, falsely claiming the student's involvement in illegal activities, and demand ransom from family members after isolating the student.

Warning Signs:

• Verify university and scholarship offers directly on official websites
• Never submit copies of identity documents or passports online
• Be alert if interviews require relocation, phone shutdown, or cutting family contact
• Immediately consult family or trusted adults about suspicious requests

Prevention Tips

1. Verify Official Channels: Always confirm payment requests directly with the school through verified contact information
2. Resist Urgency Pressure: Do not respond to demands for immediate action
3. Protect Personal Information: Decline suspicious surveys or online forms
4. Maintain Family Communication: Consult family members about unusual requests
5. Verify Bank Details: Confirm that recipient names match the educational institution

Where to Report

If you have been scammed or suspect fraudulent activity, report it immediately to your local police authority.