[Lifestyle]

Warning and Guidelines on Voice Phishing for International Students

Posted on

2024.10.09

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  As an international student in Korea, you may encounter financial scams like voice phishing, especially in unfamiliar environments. Voice phishing is a type of phone or text message scam, and it can be extremely dangerous with severe financial consequences. Students, in particular, may be vulnerable to these scams, so it is important to stay vigilant.

 

1. What is Voice Phishing?

  Voice phishing refers to scams carried out via phone calls or text messages to steal personal information or money. Scammers often pretend to be officials from banks, the police, or government agencies to gain trust and trick victims into sharing sensitive financial information or making payments.

Voice phishing is not just about losing money—it can have devastating impacts on your financial stability and emotional well-being. Victims can suffer severe economic losses, and as an international student, financial constraints may make such losses even more damaging.

 

2. Common Types of Voice Phishing

  Voice phishing comes in several forms, and here are the most common types that international students should be aware of:

  • Impersonation of Government Agencies : Scammers pose as officials from the police, prosecution, or tax office, claiming that you are involved in criminal activity or owe unpaid taxes, demanding money.
  • Bank Impersonation : The scammer pretends to be a bank employee, asking for personal details or bank account passwords. Once this information is provided, they can immediately withdraw money.
  • Impersonation of Family or Friends : The scammer may pretend to be a close friend or family member, asking for financial help. This is especially common among international students who may not frequently contact their family.
  • Job or Transaction Scams : Some scammers target students through job offers or sales platforms, tricking them into sending money as part of a fraudulent transaction.

3. Legal Consequences if You Participate in Voice Phishing

  Not only can you be a victim of voice phishing, but if you follow instructions from scammers and participate in withdrawing or transferring money, you could be considered an accomplice . In South Korea, participating in voice phishing activities can lead to criminal charges, including fraud , which carries penalties such as imprisonment or fines .

  For international students, participating in such activities can lead to severe consequences, including deportation or entry bans , which would significantly disrupt your studies and future plans. Therefore, it is crucial never to follow unknown instructions related to handling someone else's money.

 



How to Prevent Voice Phishing :

  1. Be cautious of phone calls or messages from unknown numbers.
  2. Never share personal information over the phone.
  3. Police officers or bank officials will never ask for money over the phone.
  4. If you suspect anything suspicious, immediately contact your nearest police station or the relevant institution.

  It is essential for international students to stay informed and cautious about voice phishing scams to protect themselves from financial harm.

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