Trent University and Trent International want students to be aware that recent fraudulent activities or “scams” have targeted international students at Trent University and other institutions across the country. All Trent students are being asked to be alert and take extra precautions.

For more information, read the media alert from Peterborough Police Service or watch the press conference held on June 11, 2018.

In some cases, victims are told to go into hiding without contacting police or telling anyone where they are going. They are told that family in their home country will be harmed if they do not comply. The scammer then tells the victim’s parents their child has been kidnapped and demands a ransom.

Contact Police or Campus Security if you are contacted and watch for the following:

• calls, texts or emails asking you to go into hiding or stop communicating with relatives or friends
• information related to kidnapping or threats to family or friends
• requests for ransom money, e-transfers or money via wire service
• requests for your passport number or other personal information
• threats related to your student visa or immigration status
• incoming calls from an unknown number and area code outside of Canada

Be vigilant and take care in communicating with unknown individuals or sharing personal information. Report suspicious calls, texts or emails: Call 911, contact local police 705-876-1122, or call Campus Security 705-748-1328 immediately.

Student safety is our highest priority. More information is available from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Our Trent International staff are always here to guide you. A meeting on avoiding these scams will be held with international students on campus (date to be announced).

Feel free to contact Glennice Burns AVP, International at any time 705-748-1011 ext. 1280 gburns@trentu.ca.