‘It’s really enticing’: VCU Police warn of new social media scam targeting students

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Police are alerting students to a new and increasingly common social media scam that has already impacted at least 11 students.

According to investigators, scammers are contacting students on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, claiming they want to use their photos for paintings or artistic projects. The scammers then offer to pay hundreds of dollars, often through electronic checks that ultimately bounce, leaving students financially responsible.

“Before that check clears or before the bank can say 'this is a fraud check,' our students are already sending money they typically don't have back to the scammer,” said Nick Champigny, a threat assessment specialist with VCU Police.

The scam doesn’t stop at fake checks. When students refuse to pay or stop responding, the scammers often escalate the situation, sending graphic threats or claiming someone is being sent to harm them.

Champigny said the department is now working with federal agencies, as the scam appears to be part of a larger, international trend. However, he emphasized that tracing the perpetrators is difficult due to fake social media accounts and foreign origins.

To protect themselves, students are encouraged to be skeptical of unsolicited messages offering money.

“If you don't know the person, try to do a little vetting,” Champigny advised. “If it seems legit, they'll have a professional website or an organization they're affiliated with.”

He added that young people are particularly vulnerable, as they tend to spend more time on social media and may not recognize the red flags of a scam, such as being asked to deposit electronic checks or send money in return.

“We've had upwards of 10 cases so far,” Champigny said. “Who knows how many more haven't been reported?”

What makes the scam so convincing, he added, is the promise of fast cash.

"It's really enticing when someone is saying they'll pay you $500 for a photo you took on vacation,” Champigny said. “You're thinking, 'Oh, absolutely, you can use this photo because I could use $500.' But then it turns into this — where now I'm out $2,000 instead of getting $500.”

Anyone who suspects fraud is asked to call local law enforcement. VCU community members can report incidents like this to VCU Police at 804-828-6409 or through the LiveSafe app.

Anyone who has tried to deposit a possibly fraudulent check should call their bank immediately.