6 back-to-school scams and how to avoid them
While kids are prepping for going back to school or college, scammers are looking to bait students and parents into their schemes. Watch out for these scams.
As students gear up for another school year, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for back-to-school scams. Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting students and parents with various deceptive schemes. Here are some common back-to-school scams for this school year and tips on how to avoid them.
1. Shopping scams
The rise of online shopping has made it easier for scammers to create convincing fake websites and phishing emails. With students and parents seeking the best deals on school supplies, it's a prime time for cybercriminals to strike.
How it works: Scammers set up fake websites or send phishing emails offering heavily discounted school supplies. Once you provide your credit card information, the items never arrive, and your financial details are compromised.
How to avoid it: Stick to well-known retailers and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Use secure payment methods and check for reviews or complaints online before making a purchase.
2. The back-to-school shopping spree
With social media ads and pop-ups becoming more prevalent, scammers often use these platforms to lure victims with fake shopping spree offers.
How it works: You receive an email, text, or social media ad claiming you’ve won a shopping spree. When you click the link and provide your email address, you end up inundated with spam and marketing solicitations—without any real prize.
How to avoid it: Be skeptical of unsolicited offers, especially those requiring personal information. Verify the legitimacy of the company before engaging with any such offers.
3. The student tax scam
The student tax scam is a popular one for students, or the parents of students, who are heading to college in the fall. Beware of the nonexistent "student tax."
How it works: You receive a message from someone claiming to be from the IRS, stating that a student tax is owed. The bad actors mention use social engineering tactics, such as claiming you or your kid can’t attend classes or that there’s possible jail time. Victims are coerced into giving their banking information or using gift cards to pay.
How to avoid it: Remember, the student tax doesn’t exist. Always verify such claims by contacting the IRS directly using official contact information. Don’t give any sensitive information to someone who called you, even if they claim to be a representative of a legitimate government agency.
4. Scholarship scams
As college tuition costs soar, the allure of scholarships becomes stronger—making scholarship scams more prevalent.
How it works: Scammers offer fake scholarships that require an application fee or notify you of a scholarship you never applied for, requesting a redemption fee to claim your prize.
How to avoid it: Legitimate scholarships do not require fees. If you receive a notification for a scholarship you didn’t apply for, it’s likely a scam. Always apply for scholarships through recognized channels and verify their legitimacy.
5. Student loan forgiveness scam
With ongoing discussions about student loan forgiveness in the news, scammers exploit these conversations to trick victims into paying for fake loan forgiveness services.
How it works: Scammers promise to reduce or eliminate student loan debt for a fee or request personal information to initiate the process, only to disappear once they’ve received payment.
How to avoid it: Contact your loan provider directly for information about loan forgiveness programs. Legitimate services do not charge upfront fees.
6. College test prep scams
As standardized testing remains a critical component of college admissions, scammers target students and parents with fake test prep offers.
How it works: Scammers call, text, or email, claiming your child ordered test prep materials and request payment information to process the order, leading to unauthorized charges.
How to avoid it: Verify any orders with the company directly through official contact methods. Research companies before providing payment information to ensure they are reputable.
Avoiding the back-to-school bait
Staying informed and cautious can help you avoid falling victim to these scams. Always verify the authenticity of back-to-school offers and teach your kids about the dangers of online scams. By taking these precautions, you can ensure a safer and smoother back-to-school experience.
Editorial note: Our articles provide educational information for you. Our offerings may not cover or protect against every type of crime, fraud, or threat we write about. Our goal is to increase awareness about Cyber Safety. Please review complete Terms during enrollment or setup. Remember that no one can prevent all identity theft or cybercrime, and that LifeLock does not monitor all transactions at all businesses. The Norton and LifeLock brands are part of Gen Digital Inc.
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