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CSA 25-002: TPS News Release

Broadcast Time: 17:15

Date: September 24, 2025

Type: Community Safety Alert (CSA)


Public Advisory:

University of Toronto Students Targeted in Phishing Scam


The Toronto Police Service is making the public aware of a phishing scam targeting University of Toronto students.


It is reported that:


  • students at the University of Toronto have received fraudulent emails appearing to be from the University of Toronto

  • the email stressed that outstanding tuition fees needed to be paid immediately or else they would lose access to academic services

  • recipients are provided with an email address and instructed to send a bank e-transfer


The Toronto Police Service's Financial Crimes Unit is advising the public to be aware of the following red flags that can indicate fraud: 


  • emails that appear to come from university staff but request payment to personal or non-university email accounts

  • pressure to send large sums of money quickly, with threats of losing admission or housing

  • requests for payment by Interac e-Transfer

  • follow-up emails demanding additional payments once the first transfer is made


To avoid being a victim of fraud, remember that:


  • universities will never request tuition payments via personal email accounts or third-party services such as Outlook, Gmail, or Hotmail

  • always verify payment requests directly with your school’s financial services office using official contact information from the university’s website

  • if you receive a suspicious email, do not click links, download attachments, or send money

  • report suspicious emails to your university’s I.T. and/or security department

  • if you have already sent money, contact your bank immediately and report the incident to police


The Toronto Police Service's Financial Crimes Unit encourages students to remain vigilant, especially at the start of each academic term when fraudsters often target those making tuition and housing payments.


Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-2222, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.


By Constable Laura Brabant for Detective David Coffey





University of Toronto Resources


Community Safety Office  

The Community Safety Office offers short-term support and assistance to U of T community members who have experienced personal safety concerns. They can work with you to develop a personal safety plan to address your on-campus safety concerns and explore a variety of other support resources that may be appropriate in the community and on-campus.


Hours: Mon-Fri from 9AM to 5PM

Telephone: 416-978-1485


TravelSafer

This is a 24/7 service available to the U of T community and is available to and from all U of T buildings or abutting TTC stations. This service can be arranged by calling 416-978-SAFE (7233) or by using the U of T Safety App to arrange an escort.


Virtual TravelSafer and Mobile Bluelight

These features are available through the U of T Safety App and can be used to trigger a distress beacon, in the event of an emergency, to send your location to a Campus Safety dispatcher and summon help.


U of T Campus Safety App






 
 
 

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