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Student Jailed for £500k University Scam
10 Feb
Summary
- Student jailed for attempting to defraud 200+ international applicants.
- Fraudulent scheme aimed to illicitly gain up to £500,000.
- Scammer used hacked university data for fraudulent demands.
A student has received a prison sentence for orchestrating a large-scale fraud targeting international applicants to UK universities. Sibtain Hussain, 32, was jailed for four and a half years for fraud and an additional 12 months for money laundering.
Hussain attempted to defraud over 200 individuals, demanding payments for fabricated financial capability, student services, and accommodation deposits. The scam carried a potential value of up to £500,000.
The fraudster exploited data stolen from Lancaster University's computer system in 2018, using it to target applicants. He created numerous fake identities and accounts to conceal his activities.
Despite the scheme's vast potential, only £48,000 was paid by 23 students, with most payments being blocked by banks. The National Crime Agency investigated after Lancaster University reported the data breach in July 2019.
Hussain was arrested in Bradford in July 2019 and initially denied the charges. He later pleaded guilty at Leeds Crown Court in October 2025.
