Be vigilant and safe! Scam Alert - Division of Public Safety

The Division of Public Safety is here for you if you should experience phone, email, or other fraud. Please call us immediately at +1 215-573-3333 if you think you may have experienced such an encounter.  Follow the tips below, and always reach out if you are unsure. We are here for you, and we care for you.

There have been reports of fraudulent emails, phone calls and encounters from people pretending to be a government official, either from the U.S., or from a victim’s home country.

Recent examples include claims to be police and tax officials, such as the People's Republic of China (PRC) law enforcement officers. These actors will impersonate a law enforcement official, using spoofed (masked) phone numbers that appear legitimate. They may know personal identifying information and may claim the recipient is linked to an investigation. The perpetrators are known to ask for consent to video and audio monitor the recipient under the guise of demonstrating innocence. Finally, they will demand money to prove one’s innocence or to post bail.

Other examples scammers may claim to be includes someone from the IRS (Internal Revenue Service), ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), CBP (Customs and Border Protection), FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation), a U.S. Consulate, or other government agency.

  • It is strongly advised to contact Penn’s Division of Public Safety first before you provide any personal information to someone you do not know.
  • Actual U.S. officials never ask you for personal identifying information by phone or email. You should never give someone your personal information such as name, date of birth, address, and bank account.
  • Government agencies will never directly ask you for money. If someone asks you for money, never provide your bank account information, never purchase gift cards for them, and never give out your social security number if you have one. Never wire money to individuals who are unknown to you.
  • Scam artists may sometimes manipulate their phone number so that it appears that they are calling from a true government agency. They may have specific information about you (where you are from, your school etc.) that they discover from public or hacked information so they may appear to be legitimate, but it is best to first contact Penn’s Division of Public Safety.
  • Do not turn over your phone or other electronic devices to someone claiming to be working on behalf of an official. Do not consent to video or audio monitoring.
  • If you are told to travel to a second location (i.e. CVS, Target, etc.) please instead go directly to the Penn Police Headquarters at 4040 Chestnut Street or your closest Police station.

Additionally, avoid carrying important documents such as your passport with you; make a copy and keep the originals in a secure location.

Remember your safety resources including 24/7/365 Walking Escorts services by dialing +1 215-898- 9255 (WALK). During travel, as is possible, avoid carrying important documents such as your passport with you; make a copy and keep the originals in a secure location when you have reached your destination.

Remember, you may call Penn Police anytime, 24/7/365 at: +1 215-573-3333.

Support Services:

If you should experience what you believe to be fraud or identity theft, please contact any of the following resources to assist you in navigating a resolution. You will not be judged for having experienced such an encounter, please give us the opportunity to help you.