College Tuition Scam Alert: Don't Fall for the Fake Calls!

As the fall semester approaches, colleges and universities are in full swing, and for students and their parents, it can be a chaotic time. However, amidst the excitement of new beginnings, scammers are lurking, preying on unsuspecting families. The scammers' modus operandi is to pose as representatives from the financial aid office or billing department, claiming that financial aid has fallen through and threatening to drop classes if tuition isn't paid promptly. But, don't believe the hype! Firstly, let's set the record straight: a legitimate college or university will never rush you to pay tuition in an unconventional manner, such as with cryptocurrency or a payment app like Western Union or MoneyGram. Nor will they threaten to drop classes if the payment isn't made instantly. It's crucial to stay calm and vigilant when dealing with these types of calls. So, what can you do to protect yourself and your loved ones? For starters, don't panic if you receive a suspicious call. Hang up the phone immediately and don't engage with the scammer. Be wary of caller ID, as scammers can easily mimic legitimate phone numbers to trick you. Instead, take a deep breath and check the tuition balance yourself through the college's online portal. Most schools provide a secure platform for parents to view their bill and make payments. What if you're still unsure about what you owe or have questions about your tuition balance? Don't hesitate to reach out to the financial aid office using the phone number listed on the school's website or visit the school in person. Remember, if a caller is pressuring you to make an urgent payment, it's likely a scam. As the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises, if you've been targeted by this scam, report the incident on their website. By being aware of these tactics and taking proactive steps, you can safeguard yourself against these nefarious scammers.