As students head back to campus, experts are warning about scams targeting college students and their families. These scams have already cost victims hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Imposter Scams

Many scams targeting students are imposter schemes, like phishing emails or calls from scammers pretending to be the student’s bank, financial aid office, or university. Scammers may claim that the student has won a scholarship, but ask for an upfront fee to claim it.

Student loan scams are also common, with scammers posing as the Department of Education. They may promise lower loan payments or big grants, but ask for personal information or money upfront.

Test Preparation Scams

Scammers also exploit students’ exam stress, offering fake test prep services. They may threaten to report the student to their college and accuse them of cheating if they don’t pay for the services.

Parents are also being targeted, with scammers claiming that their child has signed up for test prep services. Experts recommend starting with university-recommended resources and checking reviews to avoid these scams.

Protecting Yourself

To avoid these scams, students and parents should be cautious of unusually low prices and never pay or sign before seeing the property in person. They should also verify the offer on the card issuer’s official website and regularly check their credit report for unusual activity.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.