A scam that specifically targets international students at Imperial is active around the South Kensington campus

We have received reports of multiple students being approached by scammers on Prince Consort Road and Exhibition Road.

The scam involves a man claiming to be an Italian fashion designer, who has some high-end designer clothing for sale at cheap prices. He claims that he needs to sell the clothes either to avoid customs tax, or in order to get cash due to banking problems, or to pay for fuel for his car. 

The scammer can appear very friendly, telling you about his family and his work and claiming that he is giving you a gift. He will then ask you for money, usually around £100, which he claims he will pay back online when back home.

The scammer relies on the sympathy of students, talking about his difficult situation. He is very effective at establishing a connection with students and appears very genuine and in a difficult situation. International students are being specifically targeted.

If you are targeted by this scam, we suggest that you do not engage in conversation and remove yourself from the situation. If you are affected, contact Imperial Security on 4444, or the Advice Centre at advice@imperial.ac.uk 

Please inform your friends about this scam, and help prevent Imperial students from being a victim of crime.