Warning signs students and jobseekers should know.

Why this matters

Scammers exploit the pressure to find education and employment opportunities. They may copy the names and logos of real institutions, create lookalike websites or claim a deadline is hours away.

What to understand

Verify the offer through the organisation’s official website or a publicly listed telephone number. Examine the email domain carefully; a familiar display name is not proof of authenticity.

Practical steps

Be suspicious of demands for passwords, one-time codes or payments to personal accounts. Some genuine applications have fees, so the relevant question is whether the charge is documented on the official application channel.

What to do next

Keep copies of communications and report suspicious offers to the institution and appropriate authorities. Never send identity documents to an unverified contact.

Key takeaway

Use reliable information, check details independently and seek qualified professional help when a decision involves legal, financial, medical or personal safety risks.