BBB Warns Students of Back-to-School Scams

As the back-to-school season approaches, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns students and families about various scams that may exploit their busy schedules. Common scams include online purchase, rental, and employment scams, particularly targeting students aged 18 to 24, including college freshmen. The BBB highlights a notable case where a Vancouver student was scammed by a fake rental listing, emphasizing the importance of verifying listings and avoiding upfront deposits for unseen properties. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission warns of online shopping scams, particularly on social media, where scammers often impersonate legitimate companies offering seemingly great deals. Experts recommend thorough research before making purchases and using secure payment methods like credit cards. Students are also advised to seek reliable financial aid information from trusted institutions instead of viral social media trends, which may lead to misinformation.