Police warn community about new scam targeting international students

Release Date: September 15, 2023

The Kingston Police have received reports of international students being targeted by suspects claiming to be law enforcement from their home countries, particularly from the People’s Republic of China.

The suspects often claim that the victim’s information has been used to commit a fraud and they require proof that they are not part of the criminal enterprise. This may require the victim to share banking information or even make a payment. The suspects often claim to be working with the RCMP.

Be on the lookout for the following red flags:

• You are contacted out of the blue.
• You are asked to keep the contact secret, especially when visiting your financial institution.
• You are asked to provide personal information.
• You are told to act immediately, or you will be arrested.

Once money has been wired overseas, there is almost no possibility that police will be able to recover the funds. If you are approached and are in any way suspicious, contact the Kingston Police at 613-549-4660.