Beware of these scams targeting college students
New scams are promising scholarships, test prep and apartment listings you can’t believe — because they’re not real. Know these red flags to save yourself from a costly mistake.
New scams are promising scholarships, test prep and apartment listings you can’t believe — because they’re not real. Know these red flags to save yourself from a costly mistake.
New scams are promising scholarships, test prep and apartment listings you can’t believe — because they’re not real. Know these red flags to save yourself from a costly mistake.
Back-to-school season is here, and the is warning college students to be cautious of scammers.
Here are three scams to look out for.
Scholarship and grant scams
Scholarship and grant scams are widespread, with scammers offering "guaranteed scholarships” in exchange for a fee. They scam unsuspecting students by posing as government or university officials, or a nonprofit organization. Using words like “federal” and “national” to seem legitimate, they claim to award students with scholarships or grants, even if the student never applied. The scenarios vary — sometimes they may ask for a check or pressure you into applying for said "scholarship" or "grant."
Remember, valid scholarships would not ask for upfront money. Avoid this scam by verifying that organizations are real, steering clear of offers that seem too good to be true, and relying on your guidance counselor or financial aid office for advice.
Fake apartment listing scams
These scams involve scammers posting cheap rentals online and asking for a credit check before allowing a potential renter to see the listing. Once you agree, they send you a website to enter your credit card information and receive a credit check. When you submit your sensitive information, the "landlord" disappears and most likely, so does your money. You may even be subject to identity theft.
Make sure that before sending money for an apartment listing, you verify the owner and see the place in person. Beware of suspiciously low prices and if you do need a credit check for an apartment, use reputable sources like those recommended by the .
Test prep scams
If you’re prepping for an exam, look out for shady companies promising to help with upcoming tests. Here, scammers promise to help you pass your exams. Once you agree, they use your messages to blackmail you into sending money out of fear that you’ll be expelled for cheating. Don’t fall for it. Look up the company, read reviews on , and avoid high-pressure sales tactics.
