As students and parents gear up for another school year, it’s not just about notebooks and dorm supplies—it’s also a time when scammers ramp up their efforts. At Landings Credit Union, we care about protecting our members from fraud. That’s why we’re sharing three common scams that tend to target college students and parents of private school students during back-to-school season.
1. The Tuition Fee Scam
How it works:
You—or your child—receive a phone call from someone claiming to be an administrator from the school. The caller says you owe tuition and threatens that the student won’t be allowed back unless the balance is paid immediately. They’ll often request a wire transfer or even ask you to drop off cash at a private location.
How to stay safe:
Legitimate schools rarely, if ever, demand payment over the phone or through wire transfers. If you get a call like this, don’t act right away. Ask for details about the school, the caller’s position, and the exact amount owed. Then, hang up and contact the school directly through a trusted number to verify any balances due.
2. The “Student Tax” Scam
How it works:
A scammer posing as an IRS agent calls a student at a public university, claiming they owe a special “student tax.” The caller might threaten legal action, suspension from classes, or even jail time if the amount isn’t paid immediately via prepaid gift card or wire transfer.
How to stay safe:
The IRS will never call you first—they always initiate contact through official mail. They also don’t accept gift cards or wire transfers as payment. If you or your student receives a call like this, it’s a scam. Hang up and report it to the IRS or local authorities.
3. The Scholarship Scam
How it works:
A student is contacted—often via email or social media—and told they’ve been awarded a scholarship. All they have to do is pay a processing or application fee to claim it. Unfortunately, the scholarship doesn’t exist.
How to stay safe:
Legitimate scholarships don’t require payment to apply or receive funds. Be skeptical of any scholarship that sounds too good to be true or guarantees approval. Always research the organization behind the scholarship before taking any action.
Protect Yourself and Your Family
Scams can happen to anyone—but staying informed is your first line of defense. At Landings Credit Union, we’re committed to helping you navigate life with financial confidence.