As the back-to-school season approaches, excitement fills the air with new classes, friends, and opportunities. However, scammers also see this time as an opportunity to prey on unsuspecting students and parents. This year, be prepared and stay one step ahead of the fraudsters with our guide to common back-to-school scams and essential tips to protect yourself.
Common Back-to-School Scams to Watch Out For:
- Scholarship and Financial Aid Scams:
- Beware of offers that guarantee scholarships or financial aid in exchange for upfront fees.
- Legitimate scholarships don't require payment to apply or receive funds.
- Fake Online Textbook Stores:
- Scammers create websites that look like legitimate textbook retailers but sell counterfeit or nonexistent books.
- Stick to reputable websites and compare prices before purchasing.
- Student Loan Forgiveness Scams:
- Offers to eliminate or reduce student loan debt for a fee are often too good to be true.
- Explore legitimate student loan forgiveness programs through official channels.
- Identity Theft:
- Be cautious of sharing personal information online or through social media.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
- Rental Scams:
- Students searching for housing are targeted with fake listings or requests for upfront payment before viewing the property.
- Never send money without verifying the legitimacy of the rental and landlord.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Back-to-School Fraud:
- Research Thoroughly: Before providing personal information or making any payments, research the company or organization thoroughly.
- Check Official Websites: Verify the legitimacy of scholarship programs, financial aid offers, and online retailers by visiting their official websites.
- Beware of Unsolicited Offers: Be suspicious of unsolicited emails, texts, or phone calls offering deals that seem too good to be true.
- Use Strong Passwords: Create strong passwords for your online accounts and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized charges.
Stay Safe and Scam-Free This School Year
By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and your finances from back-to-school scams. Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and successful academic year.