Beware of These 6 College Student Scams
Scammers are everywhere, but they have a special list of ways to steal college students’ money when a new school year begins. According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), here are six scams that target college students.
1. Phishing Emails
One tactic is to steal your personal info by claiming to be from your college’s “Financial Department” or “Bursar’s Office” via email or text. The message directs the student to click on a link and to log-in to their account with a student ID and password. Don’t be fooled. Contact the proper department at your college directly to check if your account is OK. You may want to read the BBB’s article about avoiding ID theft on campus.
2. Fake Credit Cards
It’s tempting to apply for your first credit card but don’t be fooled. It could be a ploy to gather your personal data. Research any offer on a credit card flyer or bank before applying. You may want to think twice about applying in the first place; you don’t want to add credit card debt to your stress. Check out this Better Business Bureau article about credit card scams.
2. Too-Good-to-be-True Apartments
It’s hard not to jump on a great deal on an apartment, but think twice about sharing your credit card info to snag that great place. Go see it in person. Also, beware of Craigslist and social media ads looking for roommates. The BBB also has an article about rental scams.
3. Monitor Your Credit Score for ID Theft
It’s a good idea to regularly check your credit report. There’s an official government website to help you do it for free. The BBB can also teach you more about protecting your identity.
4. Student Loan, Scholarship and Grant Scams
Emails and phone calls from companies guaranteeing they can help reduce your student loan debt or offering other monetary help like scholarships or grants should be viewed with skepticism. Google the company’s name for reviews and go the BBB website to search for reviews and complaints. The BBB has some advice about scholarship scams here.
5. Online Shopping Scams
Don’t be fooled by scams set up through social media platforms and apps. Check out the BBB’s tips for online shopping and they have an entire page dedicated to online shopping tips and scam alerts.
6. Awareness of current scams
It’s hard to keep up, but remain aware of new ways to part with your money and/or your identity by monitoring the BBB’s Scam Tracker and BBB’s Scam Tips.
