WARNING: Don’t fall prey to bogus institutions and scammers

As the festive season gets underway, prospective students preparing for the new academic year must be vigilant for student-targeted scams.

According to Adrian Garden, the acting dean of academics at The Independent Institute of Education Rosebank College, bogus institutions and logistical scams are rising, targeting students eager to secure study placements, accommodation and other necessities.

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“Bogus colleges prey on the desperation of prospective students who did not secure a spot at their preferred institution or those with limited financial means.

“Signing up with a bogus institution means wasting precious time and money with nothing to show for it,” Garden warns.

To avoid falling victim to bogus institutions, Garden advises students to verify the institution’s registration with the Department of Higher Education and Training’s private higher education provider register and the Council for Higher Education and Training.

Logistical scams, including fake accommodation, transport services and second-hand textbook sales, are also rising.

Garden warns students to be careful when making online purchases or agreements, especially when dealing with unusually low prices or buyers willing to pay more than the asking price.

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“Scammers often create urgency or share emotional stories to gain trust and pressure victims into quick decisions.

“Students should always trust their gut feelings about an online transaction and err on the side of caution,” says Garden.

To stay safe, Garden advises students to:
• thoroughly research the legitimacy of listings;
• verify the product or service;
• demand secure payment options on reputable platforms;
• choose meeting points for handovers in safe public areas;
• trust their instincts and stop interactions if something does not feel right.