Scholarship scams targeting money and personal data

Fraudsters are using fake scholarship offers to steal money and personal data from citizens. Criminals create professional-looking websites, social media pages, and online groups that impersonate reputable universities, educational organizations, and study abroad consultants.

These scammers use tactics such as advertising “full scholarships,” “no exam required,” or “low cost” to lure victims. Once interest is established, they issue fake acceptance letters and demand payments for various fees, including application processing, scholarship reservation, visa fees, or insurance. To prevent victims from verifying the information, scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming that the opportunity will be lost if payment is not made immediately.

In addition to financial theft, these actors collect sensitive personal information during the registration process, including full names, dates of birth, addresses, phone numbers, academic transcripts, foreign language certificates, ID numbers, passports, and bank account details. This data can be used for further identity theft or other fraudulent schemes. The Hanoi Police have advised the public to never provide passwords, OTP codes, or sensitive banking information to unverified entities.