USC students on OPT have been targeted by scammers and we want to ensure you have the information you need to protect yourself from danger.
Scammers aggressively target international students, usually through phone calls or social media messages, impersonating government agency personnel and intimidating them by threatening their OPT status. Scammers then ask students to provide payment or personal information to fix the issue.
Below are some common scams targeting students on OPT:
- Scammers will say the student on OPT failed to submit their A number to USCIS
- Student did not provide a change of address in a timely manner
- Student did not update employer information within 10-days employment
If you receive a threatening call or message from someone claiming to be a government or law enforcement official, DO NOT provide personal or financial information and end the call immediately, even if they threaten you.
Here are some common scams and tips on how to avoid them:
- Payment for Services: No organization or individual should request payment for OPT-related services. USCIS, SEVP, and USC should be your only sources of information and support during the OPT process. The only fees associated with OPT are the filing fees paid directly to USCIS and the OPT STEM fee paid to USC.
- Phone Scams: Callers spoof their phone numbers and identify themselves as officers from local and foreign police departments, the FBI, Homeland Security, and the IRS. They use aggressive phone tactics, make up fake scenarios, and threaten to arrest and deport students for fraud or other illegal activities. In the case of OPT, scammers may claim the student has not submitted their “A” number. They offer quick solutions by demanding immediate large wire transfers or gift card transactions—neither acceptable means of payment for any U.S. government or state agencies.
- Unauthorized Representatives: Be wary of individuals or organizations claiming special access or shortcuts to applying for OPT.
- Too Good to Be True Offers: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers may promise guaranteed OPT approvals or faster processing times. Always verify information with OIS and trust your instincts.
- Phishing Emails and Calls: Avoid unsolicited emails or texts requesting personal or financial information. Never share your Social Security Number, passport details, or bank information unless you know the recipient’s legitimacy.
- False Job Offers: Be wary of job offers that require upfront payments or seem too vague. Research companies thoroughly and verify job listings through official university resources or job search platforms.
- Social Security Scams: Beware of anyone claiming that your Social Security Number (SSN) was stolen, and a fee is required to fix the issue or obtain or activate your SSN.
USC Department of Public Safety Tips:
The USC Department of Public Safety has compiled some quick tips to help you stay alert and safe. If you believe that you are a victim of a scam, please notify the USC Department of Public Safety at:
- University Park Campus: (213) 740-6000
- Health Sciences Campus: (323) 442-1200
Call the LAPD at 9-1-1 or DPS at (213) 740-4321 for UPC or (323) 442-1000 for HSC if you are in immediate danger.
To learn more about common scams and how to protect yourself, please visit the USCIS website’s “Avoid Scams” page: USCIS Common Scams.