FBI Alert: Fraudulent Chinese Police Officers Targeting Chinese Students

The U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is warning international student and scholar communities, particularly Chinese students, about a scam in which criminal actors impersonate Chinese police officers to extort money. The scammers claim that the victim is being investigated for a financial crime in China and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest. They use sophisticated tactics, including “spoofing” official phone numbers and sending fraudulent documents. Victims may also be coerced into agreeing to constant video and audio surveillance, further complicating the scam. More information is available on the FBI website.

To protect yourself, never provide personal information or send money in response to unexpected calls, even if they appear official. Verify any communication with government agencies using publicly available contact information, and do not consent to surveillance. If you suspect you’ve been targeted, we understand you may feel scared and intimidated, but please:

• If you receive such a call, immediately hang up.
• If you receive an email, do not respond and delete it immediately.
• If you feel that you are in danger, contact Drexel Public Safety.

PLEASE NOTE: The FBI requests victims report fraudulent or suspicious activities to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov as quickly as possible.