Police in Australia warn that scammers are impersonating Chinese police officers and government officials to target international students. Across reports from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, investigators say the fraud involves callers or messages that claim to be from law enforcement or official agencies. The suspects then pressure victims into sending money.
Police say the scheme has already resulted in significant losses. Reporting from multiple outlets states that nearly $800,000 has been swindled from four victims within the same month. The victims are described as international students, suggesting the scammers select people who may be less familiar with Australian processes for verifying identities or official requests.
Authorities are urging the public to be cautious when contacted by unknown parties claiming to be officials, particularly when money or personal details are requested. Police have not attributed the conduct to any specific organized group in the reports provided, but they are treating the cases as part of a broader scam and are asking for awareness to prevent further victims.
