Pseudo refers to something that is not genuine, and pseudo religion refers to a religion that is not genuine. It is a term often used to refer to heretical religions. With the recent release of the documentary series In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal on Netflix, people were able to recognize the existence of heretical religions once again. From the organization called “New Heaven and Earth,” which was especially controversial during the COVID-19 period, to JMS featured in the documentary, pseudo religions are dangerous because they do not give comfort and peace to people, but instead harm society and individuals. These organizations are infamous for extortion, fraud, violence, sexual exploitation, and forcing members to make substantial financial contributions. However, along with pseudo-propagation activities, many illegal activities by strangers targeting students are occurring on CBNU. In a recent notice on CBNU website, students can see the warning, “There are many cases in which strangers impersonating counselors, psychology majors, and university visitors approach students in various ways (requesting participation in surveys, asking for directions, building locations, or even providing nail art, basic makeup methods and personal color diagnosis). In the online university community Everytime, students also shared that they were reluctant to join religious clubs related to the JMS. A CBT reporter interviewed students who had experienced pseudo-propagation activities and strangers on campus to hear what kind of propagation methods they used. Furthermore, the CBT reporter called the office of student affairs, which is the office to call in case of negative or weird encounters with strangers on campus. Let’s find out how to deal with these strangers, and what to do in these situations.

  Kim Jin-ah(Dept. of Environmental Engineering, 21) had an experience being approached by a strange woman, and a man who said, “You have a lucky face.” On another occasion someone pretended to be an acquaintance saying that he seemed to have seen her somewhere, so she hurriedly avoided the situation.

  Son Hyun-woo(Dept. of Agricultural Economics, 23) was once asked for personal information by a stranger. He also had a question, “What do you think happiness is?” and invited attend a lecture together from stranger. In addition, a stranger showed a picture to the student and asked if he could assist in making a similar picture. The student was also asked to text the stranger with the pictures he had. Furthermore, the student was asked to meet later to print and frame the picture when it was completed. In both cases, the stranger demanded personal information and asked the student to send a text message immediately, so the student quickly ended the conversation or gave the number and later blocked the contact.

  Lee Sang-yeop(Dept. of Chemical Engineering, 23) was asked to use the products for free and write reviews because two strangers were preparing to start a new business. The products were diverse, including perfumes, pop sockets, and hats. Also, the strangers demanded the student’s name, age, and phone number, saying that they did not have the product at that moment, and suggesting to meet again later. As a result, the student was able to avoid contact by blocking the strangers’ phone numbers.

  Kim Jin-ah later commented that it is important to protect personal information as much as possible when students become the target of strangers. She said that strangers can be approached through continuous contact and make demands later, so it is important not to respond to strangers on the street and participate in surveys asking for personal information. Son Hyun-woo said it is important to report strangers to the office of student affairs immediately. By doing so the relevant authorities can take appropriate action to stop the activities and prevent future harassment or injury. Lee Sang-yeop told the students to be very careful when dealing with people they meet on the street who demand personal information. In addition, if strangers approach you regarding a product, students should ask for evidence to prove what they are claiming is true. This may include information such as the exact name and representative of the store. The school campus is not a safe place to conduct any kind of business with strangers, so use the central club as much as possible and be careful of meeting strangers in public places.

  If students experience a stranger approaching them, such as pseudo missionary activities, call the office of Student affairs immediately. As soon as a report is received, the office of student affairs will patrol the area and stop people from committing suspicious acts. In the case of affected students, simple measures are taken in the office of student affairs. Depending on the situation, counseling may be provided for the student, so students can get the help they need.

  Prevention is the most important thing when it comes to strangers approaching students on campus. Therefore, the office of student affairs is raising student awareness with notices and banners. At the beginning of the semester, freshmen entered the school and there were multiple cases such as contact with members of the JMS cult. As a result, banners were displayed and reporting periods were announced. In addition, school patrols are continuing, and if there are related problems, students can report and consult with the office of Student affairs by simply making a call at any time.

  University campuses are more accessible to strangers than other public areas. Posters and leaflets that are not approved by the school authorities are posted everywhere, and missionary work is conducted through cultural events and volunteer activities. CBNU students should be alert and careful about the approach of strangers who abuse their “freedom of religion” and commit illegal dissolution. Finally, if students feel uncomfortable they should call the following number immediately: 043-261-2019. Also always remember, if readers  see something suspicious, say something.