Revisiting Back to School Scams
08/05/2026
Revisiting Back to School Scams
As families prepare for a new school year, they are often focused on checking off supply lists, organizing schedules, and making sure students have everything they need for a successful start. Unfortunately, scammers know this is a busy time and take advantage of the rush by targeting parents, students, and educators. Knowing what to watch for can help protect your personal information and finances so you can focus on what matters most: starting the school year with confidence.
Fake Scholarship and Grant Offers
Bad actors will often contact parents and young adults claiming they have won a scholarship or government grant. The offers may include verbiage like “this type of grant does not require an application” or “for a small fee, you can apply for [insert scholarship or grant here].”
Remember:
- You cannot win a scholarship or grant you did not apply for
- Government grants and most scholarships do not have application or processing fees
- “Guaranteed” offers are always suspicious
- Never give out personal or financial information over the phone or via email
College Housing Rental Scams
Rental scams are commonplace, but they are especially common when it comes to college housing. Many scammers will advertise cheap rent, create high pressure environments, or ask for unusual payment methods.
Remember:
- Always view a property in person
- Never give in to high-pressure tactics
- Be skeptical of below-market rent offers
- Never pay via untraceable methods
- Verify legitimacy of contact information – you can do a background check on the landlord or property manager
School Shopping Scams
Bad actors may also put out ads on social media or via email with offers on deeply discounted clothes, school supplies, and more. Most of the time, the items either don’t exist or look nothing like they should, and the ad or email was just a way to gain access to your payment details or personal information.
Remember:
- Never click on links in ads; always visit the website by the official URL or verified app
- Always be wary of too-good-to-be true offers
- Avoid rushing or panicking to get low stock or out of stock items
Administrator Imposter Scams
Other scammers will reach out to parents or students and impersonate school administration. They may claim your tuition payment didn’t go through, and they need it now, your information was lost and they need your personal details again, or that there is a fundraiser they need your help with. Keep in mind that these scammers have the capability to spoof the intuition’s real email or phone number.
Remember:
- Hang up if you get a call involving money or sensitive information
- Do not trust the number on caller ID, and always go online for the official phone number and reach out to the institution that way
The Savings Bank would like to wish everyone a happy and healthy school year!
Sources:
https://www.grants.gov/learn-grants/grant-fraud/grant-related-scams