Common Scams Targeting Students and Young Adults

Security

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3.10.23

Common Scams Targeting Students and Young Adults


Know how to recognize and avoid common trending scams to protect yourself from criminals who may try to steal your personal or financial information.

Online Income Scams
Scammers hook their victims with the promise that they’ll earn quick and easy money right from their home. To apply, they must either send payment for the application or they’re sent a fraudulent check and required to transfer a portion of the check to the company.

Tip: Walk away from any job offers that require you to pay money upfront.

Debt-Related Scams
Scammers reach out to individuals who may be enticed by the promise that they can get their debts reduced or forgiven – for a one-time fee.

Tip: Reputable lenders will not require upfront payment. If they charge a fee, it will be deducted from the loan amount.

Fake Sale Listing Scams
Goods, services and housing are listed on job or community boards for very low prices that seem too good to be true. Once the victim sends payment, what was promised never arrives or never existed.

Tip: Research companies that make offers that are too good to be true and never give out any personal information or send payments to anyone you do not know.

If You've Been Victimized
If you suspect your identity has been stolen, you should notify Provident Credit Union immediately at (800) 632-4600, so we can close any accounts that may have been tampered with. Also:
  • Notify the three major credit bureaus listed below and place a fraud alert on your credit file. Monitor your credit report to identify any unauthorized activity
    • Equifax: (800) 525-6285
    • Trans Union: (800) 680-7289
    • Experian: (888) 397-3742
  • File a complaint with the FTC (Federal Trade Commission). They maintain a database of identity theft cases used by law enforcement agencies for investigations.
  • File a police report and keep copies for creditors.