Students & Young Adults
The internet is a big part of everyday life—social media, online shopping, banking, and schoolwork. But with all this convenience comes risk. Scammers and cybercriminals are always looking for ways to trick people, and young adults and students are often prime targets. Here are some common online scams where students are targeted:
Scholarship and Financial Aid Scams
Scammers know students want help paying for school, so fake scholarships or “financial aid” offers are common.
Common Warning Signs:
- Requests for upfront fees to apply.
- Promises that sound too good to be true.
- Emails or websites with poor grammar or unofficial addresses.
Example:
A student received an email claiming they won a $2,000 scholarship but had to pay a processing fee.
Fake Job and Internship Offers
Online job boards and social media are common ways scammers target young adults.
Common Warning Signs:
- Employers asking for money upfront.
- Offers with unrealistic pay or vague job descriptions.
- Requests for personal information before any interview.
Example:
A student applied for a “remote internship” on social media and was asked to pay for software to start working.
Social Media Scams and Phishing
Scammers use social media to steal passwords, spread malware, or trick you into sharing money or information.
Common Warning Signs:
- Messages from unknown users with links.
- Posts promising free electronics or gift cards.
- Friends’ accounts behaving unusually (hacked accounts).
Example:
A young adult received a DM on Instagram claiming they won a new phone. The link asked for login information.
Online Marketplaces and Selling Scams
Whether buying textbooks, electronics, or clothing online, scams can appear anywhere.
Common Warning Signs:
- Sellers requesting payment outside secure platforms.
- Prices that seem too good to be true.
- Limited communication or pushy sales tactics.
Example:
A student tried to buy a used laptop on an online marketplace. The seller wanted payment via an unusual app.
Tips for Students and Young Adults:
- Pause and think before clicking links or sharing info.
- Verify offers and requests with official sources.
- Keep passwords strong and unique and enable two-factor authentication.
- Adjust social media privacy settings and monitor accounts.
- Report suspicious activity immediately—both to your platform and, if needed, your local branch.
