University students are often the target of cyber-crimes and scams, and therefore it is important to stay aware and vigilant of such crimes so you can best protect yourself from these attacks.

In recent weeks, you may have read articles about a new scam targeting international students from the Chinese community, asking them to fake their own kidnappings – known as a ‘virtual kidnapping’, to get families to send large ransom payments in exchange for their ‘release’.

We encourage any students who believe they have been targeted by a scam to make a report to police through the ReportCyber portal.

You can also access support for your welfare through Murdoch’s myMurdoch Advice team at advice@murdoch.edu.au, Guild Student Assist or our Murdoch University Counselling Service at CounsellingService@murdoch.edu.au.

More information on cyber security and staying safe both on and off campus can be found on the MurdochSafe app.

We have recently started a Cyber-Safety Series on the myMurdoch portal to explore the common ways that cyber-crimes can take place. In our most recent article, we explore the topic of social engineering in cyber-crime.

It is important to stay aware and vigilant of scammers, especially over the phone and online. The Australian Government provides cyber-safety resources and advice on their eSafety website, the ScamWatch website and the Stay Smart Online page.