As students head back to school and families prepare for a new academic year, scammers are busy looking for opportunities to take advantage of the season. From fake scholarship offers to fraudulent online stores, back-to-school scams can target both students and parents!
- Be cautious of emails, texts, or social media messages promising scholarships, grants, or student loan forgiveness in exchange for personal information or upfront fees.
- When shopping online for school supplies, electronics, or textbooks, stick to trusted retailers and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers often create fake websites designed to collect payment information without ever delivering a product.
- Students searching for housing should also watch out for rental scams. Never send money or provide personal information before verifying that a property listing is legitimate.
A little extra caution can go a long way during back-to-school season. If something feels suspicious, take the time to verify before clicking, paying, or sharing personal information. At Bank of Bozeman, we’re committed to helping you protect your finances and stay informed about the latest fraud trends!