Fake university website closed down
An investigation carried out by Somerset County Council has led to the closure of the 'Glastonbury University' website, a bogus college.The website promoted a fake university which was being used to target visa applicants, particularly from the Far East. Following the investigation the website and domain name have been removed by the central e-crime unit of the Metropolitan Police.
The investigation was launched by Somerset County Council after a London university reported an application from a student claiming to have a degree from Glastonbury University.
As part of the investigation it was established the address listed on the website for the university is an empty building in the centre of Glastonbury. The site which featured on the website is actually part of the University of Leicester.
The trading standards investigation involved contact with overseas companies and regulators including the FBI in Florida, as well as correspondence with central government.
If you are looking to gain qualifications to support your visa application to come to the UK you should make sure that you are aware of the requirements for your application. The UKBA are reviewing all of their accredited education sponsors which means more bogus colleges like this may be shut down.
If you are unsure of a college or qualification you should contact the UKBA to check that it is an accredited sponsor. Applications sent supported by qualifications from bogus colleges will be refused and your fee will not be refunded.
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