Stay Alert: DUT warns students of scams ahead of the 2026 academic year
The Durban University of Technology has warned students to be vigilant of scams ahead of the 2026 academic year.
Image: Khulasande Tshayile.
As Durban University of Technology (DUT) prepares for the 2026 academic year, the institution has issued a strong warning to prospective and returning students, parents, and sponsors to remain vigilant against scams that typically surge at the start of the academic cycle.
“The start of a new academic year brings excitement, but it also attracts opportunists,” the warning states, highlighting that matriculants are particularly vulnerable as they may be unfamiliar with university processes.
According to DUT, scammers deliberately exploit this uncertainty by impersonating university officials or fellow students.
The advisory cautions that scammers may offer supposed assistance with admission, registration support, residence placement, or academic assistance, all with the intention of extracting money or personal information. DUT has made it clear that such offers should immediately raise concern.
“There are no shortcuts, secret contacts, or quick fixes,” the warning stated.
It further stresses that “legitimate DUT processes do not happen via random direct messages or unsolicited calls,” reinforcing that official communication follows formal and verifiable channels.
Students and families are also warned about coercive behaviour. “Pressure tactics are a clear warning sign, and personal information should always remain private,” DUT notes, urging individuals not to be rushed into making decisions or payments.
The institution underscored that vigilance is a shared responsibility, stating that “making informed choices protects you and the broader university community.”
When uncertainty arises, the guidance is unambiguous: “When in doubt, pause, verify, and always use official DUT platforms.”
As the university looks ahead, the message concludes with a call for collective awareness and focus: “Let us begin 2026 informed, alert, and focused on success, steering clear of scams.”
Types of scams to watch out for:
- Admission Assistance: Offers of help with the admission process that require payment or personal information.
- Registration Support: Claims of expedited registration services for a fee.
- Residence Placement: Scammers posing as university officials offering guaranteed residence placements.
- Academic Assistance: Unsolicited offers for tutoring or academic support that ask for payment upfront.