An IT security expert warns prospective university students about elaborate scam schemes, including fake university websites and fraudulent offers of paid admission to state-funded programs, aiming to steal personal data and money.
Fraudsters are actively creating deceptive websites that closely mimic official university portals. Their goal is to illicitly obtain personal data from prospective students, particularly those who are willing to pay for admission to state-funded educational programs. Konstantin Larin, the Head of Cyber Intelligence at Bastion company, highlighted these and other prevalent deceptive practices targeting university applicants during an interview.
The IT expert detailed how these scammers develop highly convincing fake pages designed to resemble official university sites or even the “Gosuslugi” (State Services) portal. The primary objective behind these operations is to steal sensitive information such as logins, passwords, and other personal data from Russian citizens.
“Among the most common scam scenarios is `paid admission to state-funded places,` where criminals promise guaranteed university enrollment in exchange for money,” Larin explained. “Additionally, schemes involving fraudulent `additional admissions` are frequently used. These involve creating fictitious lists of applicants who can supposedly gain entry for a specific fee.”
Larin further noted that messaging applications are also being exploited for deceptive purposes. Scammers establish fake chat groups, posing as representatives of university admission committees. They then strategically build trust with their victims before extorting personal data or financial payments.
Expert Recommendations to Prevent Falling Victim to Scams:
“To avoid falling prey to these elaborate tricks, it is vital to adhere to a few simple rules,” the expert advised:
- Do not click on suspicious links or open dubious attachments, even if they appear to originate from a university or another seemingly trustworthy source.
- Never trust special offers – it is crucial to understand that state-funded educational places are not available for purchase.
- Do not respond to calls requesting payment of state fees to a private individual`s bank card or any other questionable payment methods – these are unequivocally scams.
He strongly emphasized that legitimate universities do not solicit money over the phone and do not use threats against applicants.
Previously, Russian applicants received warnings about a new scam tactic where fraudsters began impersonating university psychologists.
Clement Ashworth 
Barnaby Whitfield