West Mercia Police – Neighbourhood Matters

Job Application Fraud

Students looking for job opportunities can be targeted by fraudulent adverts aimed at stealing personal information or money. Students might be asked for an upfront payment for a fake consultation or extra help finding a job, but the fraudster does not deliver. Stay safe by:

·  Fraudsters will often use fake job adverts and impersonate legitimate companies to lure job seekers. Always do some research to check that you’re dealing with a genuine employer.

·  A legitimate employer or agency will not ask you for money to work for them.

·  Look out for job offers that claim they can make you rich quickly and offer incredibly high salaries for very few hours.

·  Use trusted recruitment websites to find jobs and research an employer to check they are real before handing over any personal details.

Rental Fraud

Looking for student housing? Rental fraudsters often target students looking for university housing, asking you to pay advance fees for properties that don’t event exist. Follow our tips here:

·  Always view the property: You, or someone you trust, should view the property in-person before you sign any contracts or make payment.

·  Overseas students and workers: If you need to secure accommodation in the UK from overseas, seek advice from the employer or university you are coming to. If you are unsure about anything a prospective landlord is asking you to do, speak to a trusted friend or family member, or seek professional independent advice.

·  Signs of fraud: Use the information provided in the property listing, such as the address and photos, to look online for what other information you can find about the property you would like to rent. Fraudsters often steal information from legitimate listings to create fake listings of their own.

·  Payment: Where possible, avoid bank transfer payments; use credit or debit cards for better protection against fraud.

General online safety tips

Here’s how you can protect yourself further as you start your new university year:

·  Protect your accounts: Use unique passwords for each account. A strong password is key—try using three random words and enable 2-step verification (2SV) for extra security.

·  Pay safely: Avoid paying by bank transfer and don’t feel pressured into quick payments. Use a credit card for online purchases whenever possible.

·  Beware of unsolicited messages: Fraudsters often use emails, texts, and social media to lure you in. Always double-check before making any purchases or paying upfront fees.

• Report suspicious emails to: report@phishing.gov.uk
• Report suspicious texts or scam calls to 7726 (free of charge).

Have you been a victim to fraud?

If you’ve lost money or shared financial information due to online fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, contact Police Scotland at 101.