University students are increasingly being targeted by fraudsters who exploit financial pressures, part-time job searches and accommodation needs. From fake landlord listings to student finance phishing emails, scams are now a real part of campus life.
Our research at PORGiESOFT Security, reveals that students remain one of the most vulnerable demographics to fraud and scams - largely due to financial stress, limited fraud-focused financial education and digital dependence.
Understanding the Student Threat Landscape
Fraud targeting students typically falls into these key categories:
- Accommodation scams - fake rental listings or deposits for non-existent housing.
- Job and income scams - false remote work opportunities or fake recruiter messages offering high pay for simple tasks.
- Phishing and financial scams - fraudulent emails impersonating Student Finance, HMRC, or universities asking for payment details.
Students may also encounter scams through social media groups or online marketplaces, where scammers pose as other students to gain trust.
Why students are at risk
Most students live independently for the first time, manage their own finances and handle large one-off payments like rent or tuition fees. Fraudsters exploit inexperience and emotional triggers such as urgency or fear of missing out on housing.
Recent surveys show both home and international students are being targeted by scams - with accommodation, employment, recruitment and task scams becoming an emerging trend.
How universities can help
- Deliver consistent fraud awareness training. Embed digital safety sessions into student onboarding.
- Use real-world examples. Show screenshots of actual scam messages, with explanations of why they’re fraudulent.
- Provide a reporting channel. A centralised fraud reporting inbox can help identify trends quickly.
- Partner with fraud intelligence organisations. Collaborate with industry experts to access up-to-date insights.
- Leverage AI Avatars for education. Students respond better to interactive learning than written policy reminders.
PORGiESOFT Security’s Student Protection Model
Through our Anti-Fraud Pack - University Edition, we provide tailored fraud awareness toolkits, posters, digital assets and training materials designed specifically for university environments. Each pack includes current fraud examples, QR code scam alerts, and smishing/phishing updates.
By integrating AI-powered education through avatars and digital dashboards, universities can strengthen student resilience and demonstrate a commitment to wellbeing and safety.
Key takeaway
Scams targeting students aren’t just emerging trends - they’re wellbeing issues. By combining education, awareness and proactive intelligence, universities can protect their students, enhance trust and contribute to a safer academic ecosystem.
