Don’t Get Schooled by Scammers: Back to School Fraud to Watch For
Back to school season means new routines, new supplies, and plenty of things competing for your attention. Unfortunately, scammers know this is a busy time of year too.
From fake shopping deals to scholarship scams, fraud can show up in places you might not expect. Taking a few extra seconds before clicking, paying, or sharing information can make a big difference.
Here are some common back-to-school scams to keep on your radar.
Be Careful With Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True
School supplies, laptops, clothes, and dorm essentials can get expensive, so finding a great deal feels like a win. Scammers take advantage of that by creating fake websites and advertisements that offer popular products at unusually low prices.
Before making a purchase from an unfamiliar website, take a closer look. Check the website address for misspellings, search for information about the company, and be cautious of sites that pressure you to act immediately.
A big discount is not worth risking your card or account information.
Watch Out for Scholarship and Financial Aid Scams
Students and families searching for ways to pay for college may come across offers promising guaranteed scholarships, grants, or financial aid.
Be especially cautious if someone asks you to pay a fee to receive a scholarship or claims you have won an award you never applied for. Scammers may also ask for personal information that can be used for identity theft.
Take your time and verify an organization before providing personal or financial information.
Think Before You Click That Text
A text might say there is a problem with your account, a package cannot be delivered, or you need to verify a recent purchase. The message may even look like it came from a company you recognize.
The goal is often the same: get you to click a link and enter personal information.
Instead of using the link in the message, go directly to the company's official website or app. If a message claims to be from ICCU and you are unsure whether it is legitimate, contact us directly.
Be Cautious With Unusual Payment Requests
Scammers often create a sense of urgency. They may claim you owe money for tuition, housing, supplies, or another expense and demand immediate payment.
Requests to pay using gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency or other unusual payment methods should raise a red flag.
Before sending money, stop and verify the request through a trusted source. A legitimate organization should not pressure you into making an immediate payment without giving you an opportunity to confirm the details.
Keep an Eye on Your Accounts
One of the simplest ways to spot potential fraud is to regularly review your accounts.
Online and mobile banking make it easier to check transactions and catch something that does not look right. If you notice suspicious activity on your ICCU debit or credit card, you can lock your card within online banking before contacting the credit union.
It is also important to use strong, unique passwords and never share verification codes or online banking credentials with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
When in Doubt, Slow Down
Scammers want you to react before you have time to think. That is why urgency is such a common part of fraud attempts.
If something feels unusual, give yourself permission to stop. Do not click the link. Do not send the money. Do not provide your information.
Take a moment to verify who you are communicating with using contact information you know is legitimate.
Back to school season is busy enough without having to deal with fraud. Staying alert, monitoring your accounts, and knowing the warning signs can help protect you and your family throughout the school year.