Banking & Money Tips for International University Students

Fake Check Scams

The most common check scams begin with one of these situations:

• You sold an item online and the buyer overpays.
• Surprise! You “won” a prize, for a contest you didn’t enter.
• You’re overpaid as a “secret shopper.”
• You’re hired to do small jobs like dog walking and are paid too much.

In cases like these, the person who sent you a check will ask you to send back money or buy gift cards to cover the amount you were overpaid, or to cover extra “fees.” After that, you find out the check you received is not real.  As a result, you lose money.

Government-Themed Scams
In most cases, you’re contacted by someone claiming to be from a tax or law enforcement agency. They warn that you’ll be punished for not paying fees or fines, and tell you to transfer money elsewhere. In these scenarios, you’re tricked into giving away money.

Sublet Scams
If you’re subletting your apartment, you might be contacted by an “interested renter” who sends you a check for more than the amount of the security deposit and the first rent payment. Then they’ll ask you to send the extra “overpayment” money back to them. This is a scam, because the check they sent you is not real.

What to Watch For

• Someone overpaying when they send you a check
• People asking you to provide access to your account
• Individuals asking you to act immediately or keep their request for money “secret"
• Phone calls, text messages or emails requesting personal information, or to click a link

What to Do

• Stop and ask questions.
• Don’t send funds.
• Never provide your account information or debit card PIN.
• Seek financial advice/support.

When will I receive my debit card?
You will receive your debit card at the branch on the day you open your account.

How do I pay my bills?
Depending on the situation, you may need to use checks, especially if large sums are involved. Or, you may want to pay bills with Web Pay, using our online Web Branch service. You also can use Zelle® to send money to people you know and trust with a bank account in the U.S.

Where can I make deposits?
You can deposit checks or cash at any of our branches. You also take advantage of Mobile Deposit, which enables you to make deposits with your smartphone. Download our Mobile App and try it out!