Resources on Scams
This page is dedicated to providing resources about scams for Georgetown’s international community. Below are information, videos, and links where you can learn more about scams you may encounter while in the U.S., how you can protect yourself, and how to report a scam. Additionally, you can visit other pages on our website to find more specific information on Social Security Number (SSN) scams and tax scams. We hope this information empowers you and helps you stay safe!
How should you react?
If you receive a threatening telephone call or email, remain calm and do not give out any personal information or payment of any kind. Please remember S.C.A.M., presented by Georgetown University Police Department (202-687-4343) at our previous Avoiding Scams webinar.
- Stop – If you feel you are being pressured to divulge personal information or send a payment, stop.
- Collect Information – Ask for the caller’s name, agency, and contact information. Say you must verify this information and hang up.
- Alert Authorities – Contact your IS Advisor, undocuhoyas@georgetown.edu, or GUPD/local police for help in determining if this is a legitimate request.
- Make a report – Your IS Advisor, undocuhoyas@georgetown.edu, or GUPD/local police can help you.
Not sure if you may have been the victim of scam?
- Students with F-1 and J-1 visa status (immigration documents issued by Georgetown) should reach out to their dedicated International Student (IS) Advisor in the Office of Global Services.
- Students in DACA, TPS, Asylum, Refugee, PR pending, and/or are undocumented should reach out to undocuhoyas@georgetown.edu.
Videos
Resources
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Scam Definitions and Tips
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft and Online Security Information
- FTC Filing Consumer Complaints
- FTC Scam Alerts
- General Warning and Info on Avoiding Scams (OGS Instagram)
- Social Security Administration (SSA) Fraud FAQ
- USA.gov Common Scams Information
- United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) Common Scams Information
- USCIS Avoiding Immigration Scams Information