SAN ANTONIO — College students are now back in school, but fighting fraud is likely not at the top of a student's list, even though they are at a very high risk when it comes to scams.
The Better Business Bureau says even though they are at a very high risk, if they can establish good habits to monitor and detect fraud, they can set themselves up for financial help well beyond school.
So why such a high risk? Jason Meza, a BBB spokesperson told KENS 5, "For one tethered to technology, they're very reliant on technology. So many times swiping left and right, approving things, sending things digitally and not really stopping to double check and verify the accuracy of who they're sending money to, sending deposits with."
The second reason, more financial opportunities start coming their way in college. "Online purchases, employment scams, investment, all those things start coming into into the fold as they move into dorms, into college scenarios this year," said Meza.
The BBB says to watch out for these top college scams.
Fake credit cards with tempting offers. Too good to be true apartments so close to campus. Scholarship or grant scams. Make sure you do your research on the company or organization offering the scholarship or grant. Online scams are a biggie with college students loving to shop. And test preparation scams that blackmail students out of fear of expulsion for cheating.
"It's simply something that's copied and borrowed and probably lifted and erroneously unfortunately, that that happens a lot," Meza said.
To avoid college scams the BBB says send sensitive mail to a permanent home or mailbox and store safely. Never lend your credit or debit card to anyone. Guard your passwords and watch for phishing and watch your statements. Make sure your computer has up-to-date antivirus and spyware. Check your credit at least once a year.
"There's several profiles of yourself floating around. Somebody might be using your identity to create accounts, to get information, to get free money," Meza said.