Students heading to school and university are being warned they are top targets for fraudsters, after scammers conned young people in Norfolk out of more than £845,000 last year.

Norfolk Constabulary received 638 reports of fraud from young people aged between 11 and 29, who lost a combined £845,345.88 in 2023.

Across the country, young people lost £143.7m.

Action Fraud, the national fraud and cybercrime reporting service, has now launched a student safety campaign revealing the types of fraud to look out for.

Investment fraud tops the list, where criminals target students by promising them quick wins through cryptocurrency or schemes with high return investment.

Nationally, students lost £29,509,631 to investment fraud last year.

The list also highlights fake job fraud, where students looking for jobs are targeted by fraudulent adverts aimed at stealing personal information or money. This cost students £149,719 last year. 

Rental fraud, where fraudsters ask students to pay fees upfront without viewing accommodation, robbed young people of £4,270,255. 

Students also lost £9,199,951 to online shopping fraud and £1,053,493 through purchasing fake tickets for gigs, festivals and events.

Adam Mercer, deputy director of Action Fraud, said: “Everyone starting the new university or school year should be able to focus on new exciting experiences and meeting new people, but we know this is not the case for some. Young people can be a primary target for fraudsters.

“It’s important to look out for these top frauds and for students to protect themselves online, as well as in-person, from different types of fraud.

"By remaining cautious about contact with someone you don’t know, or being wary of purchasing online from unfamiliar websites, you can help prevent yourself from being a victim of fraud.

“If you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report to Action Fraud online at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040."