Global Engagement > Student Resources > International Student & Scholar Services > Safety, Scams & Your Rights

Safety, Scams & Your Rights

International Student and Schol​ar Services is committed to your personal safety. The resources on this page will provide you with tips on how to be safe in Chicago and on campus, help you to avoid common scams targeting international students and give you an outline of your rights when interacting with local or federal authorities. If you would like to discuss any of these topics further we encourage you to speak with your ISS advisor.  

Safety in Chicago

As in any large city, living in Chicago requires awareness of your surroundings and taking common sense actions to protect your personal safety and property.  Be alert, show confidence and trust your instincts when traveling throughout the city. In an emergency dial 9-1-1 for Police, Fire and Rescue Services. Dial 3-1-1 to reach the Chicago Police Department for non-emergency situations. 

DePaul Public Safety

DePaul is committed to making campus safety a top priority through a variety of programs. Visit the Public Safety website for information about DePaul's safety initiatives, emergency preparedness resources and for safety tips. For assistance or to report any suspicious activity on campus contact Public Safety at Lincoln Park: (773) 325-7777 or Loop: (312) 362-8400. 

What is a Scam? 

A scam is a dishonest or fraudulent scheme designed with the intention of obtaining personal information or money from a victim.  In recent years there has been an increse in scams targeting international students. Scams are often conducted by phone, email  or social media by individuals claiming to represent law enforcement or government officials. Scammers often use threats and indimidation to scare a victim into revealing financial information or making payments to avoid future action including arrest or deportation. It is important to note that legitimate law enforcement or government officials do not use such tactics and would not demand immediate payment to resolve an issue. We do not want you to become the victim of a scam. It is important to recognize familar tactics used by the perpetrators of scams to protect yourself. If you suspect that you have been contacted by a scammer do not respond to their demands. For more information about common scams targeting students, please review this guide and if you need help or want to discuss any of these topics further we encourage you to speak with your ISS advisor.  

Immigration Scams

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reports an increase in immigration scams targeting international students.  Students may be contacted by scammers claiming to be U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) representatives. These scammers may demand passport numbers or credit card information. USCIS would not ask for any form of payment over the phone. Please read this message from DHS to protect yourself from immigration scams. 

Other Scam Resources

U.S. Constitutional Rights

 
F-1 and J-1 non-immigrant visa holders have certain constitutional rights in the United States when confronted by local or federal authorities. The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) and the American Civil Liberties Union offer resources in a variety of languages that address what rights you have if you are stopped, questioned or arrested by local, state or federal law enforcement officers. These resources are designed for both citizens and non-citizens. These resources are not intended as legal advice, but for informational purposes only. If you have a concern about an interaction with local or federal authorities, please contact your ISS advisor. 
 
 
Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) Know Your Rights When Interacting with ICE Officers
 
 
 

Your Rights When Interacting With Law Enforcement or ICE Officers

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has recently announced increased immigration enforcement activity in cities and communities across the United States, including cities that have policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

If you encounter ICE or other federal immigration officers while you are traveling or going about your daily activities:

  • Stay calm. Do not run away or physically interfere with officers.
  • You have the right to remain silent. You generally do not have to answer questions about your immigration status, where you were born, or where you entered the United States.
  • You can ask, “Am I free to leave?” If the answer is yes, leave calmly.
  • You have the right to speak with an attorney. If you are detained or arrested, tell the officer that you want to speak with a lawyer and do not sign documents or make statements you do not understand.
  • Do not sign anything you do not understand. Ask to speak with an attorney before signing immigration documents.
  • Do not physically resist an officer. If an officer detains or arrests you, remain calm and clearly state that you wish to remain silent and speak with an attorney.
  • If you encounter immigration officers at your home, do not open the door simply because officers ask to enter. Officers generally need a judicial warrant signed by a judge to enter a home without your permission. An ICE administrative warrant is not the same as a judicial warrant.

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