Avoiding Financial Scams: College Edition

Phishing Scams

Fraudsters often impersonate banks, universities, or payment apps via email or text. These messages create urgency-such as "account suspended" or "tuition issue"-and ask students to click links or share login details.

Tip: Never provide sensitive information through links; verify requests directly with the institution.

Fake Job Offers

"Work-from-home" scams frequently target students. A common tactic is sending a check for supplies and asking the student to return part of the funds. The check later bounces.

Tip: Be cautious of jobs offering high pay for little work or requiring upfront payments.

Scholarship & Financial Aid Scams

Scammers may promise guaranteed scholarships in exchange for fees or personal financial information.

Tip: Legitimate scholarships don't guarantee awards or require large application fees.

Peer-to-Peer Payment Scams

Through apps like Venmo or Zelle, scammers may claim they accidentally sent money and request a refund-after sending a fraudulent payment.

Tip: Only send money to people you know and trust.

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify requests independently
• Avoid sharing personal or banking information
• Monitor accounts regularly
• Question urgency or "too good to be true" offers

Staying alert and informed is the best defense against financial scams.