Police warn over new scam targeting students after reported losses of more than $400,000

Saturday, 16 May 2026 08:53

Some report they have lost more than $400,000.

Police are warning of a new scam targeting the Chinese community, particularly international students, following a recent spate of attacks, with some citing losses of more than $400,000.

The alleged "authority scams" appear to target members of the Chinese community, reportedly posing as Chinese police or authorities before telling the person they are being suspected of committing crimes or being threatened with arrest.

Authorities in Sydney's inner city, south and east have received a spike in scam reports, with victims being told they need to transfer money or cryptocurrency to avoid being arrested.

Victims are being targeted via multiple phone apps, including WeChat.

On May 3, a 22-year-old woman reported a loss of more than $400,000 after saying she was contacted by Chinese police who said she was linked to a "known terrorist".

The woman was then told she would have a warrant for her arrest, and her family would be arrested unless she transferred money.

Cybercrime Squad Commander Detective Superintendent Matthew Craft said scammers "are becoming increasingly sophisticated in the way that they target their victims".

"They will use a range of tactics to intimidate victims into acting quickly to make a payment, including threats of arrest."

Police have urged people who believe a potential scammer has contacted them to report it to the National Anti-Scam Centre.

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