UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Penn State University Police are warning the University community of a telephone scam.
Police have received reports that scammers use software to make it look like they are calling from a government agency, such as the FBI, DHS, IRS or police, and tell the victim they owe money. Reports are that the callers provide personal information about the victim that already is publicly available in an attempt to make the phone call seem more credible.
According to police, scammers have requested that victims either provide credit card information over the phone, mail in funds, or withdraw funds and meet them to make payment. Any member of the University community who receives such a call should not provide the caller with any information and should contact University Police at 814-863-1111 immediately.
International students attending area colleges and universities have been heavily targeted, said University Police, citing a release from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Callers may claim there are problems with the student's financial aid and/or student visa, and may threaten deportation if payment is not made.
University Police would like to remind the community:
- If you see or hear suspicious activity, persons or vehicles, contact University Police at 814-863-1111 or 911 immediately.
- Never give anyone personal or financial information over the phone.
- Monitor credit card and bank statements regularly and report any unauthorized transactions to your financial institution immediately.