College students at risk of scams in NY. How to avoid them

As New Yorkers head off to college in the coming days and weeks, it's important to keep an eye out for scammers, the New York State Department of Consumer Protection says.

New York is home to nearly 300 higher education institutions, according to the state Department of Consumer Protection, which is the second highest number nationwide.

"Whether living away from home for the first time, navigating financial aid or building credit, students are often in new situations that make them vulnerable to potential scams," Secretary of State Walter T. Mosely said. "Before heading back to campus, I urge students and their parents or caregivers to learn about the simple, but important, steps to take to help prevent identity theft, common scams and other safety risks that come with living on campus."

Here's what to look out for.

Which scams commonly target students

From fake scholarships and employment offers to fake websites offering cheaper textbooks and school supplies, there are many ways college students are targeted by scammers. Here are some tips from the state's Department of Consumer Protection to guard yourself from becoming a victim of one of these scams:

Fake scholarships, grants or loans

Visit FAFSA's website directly as the required paperwork to apply for financial aid is completely free and don't believe anyone who offers guarantees or pre-approvals for loans or grants.

Unpaid tuition scam

Ignore all calls claiming you'll be dropped from your classes unless you pay tuition immediately over the phone. Always contact your school's bursar's office directly to verify you account status.

Fake employment or internship offers

Never pay an upfront fee to move forward in an interview process or provide too much personal information, such as your social security number, during the application or interview process.

Buying books online

Learn how to identify fake website listings for textbooks and supplies as scammers set up fake websites and offer great deals on expensive textbooks but never deliver. Do your research and confirm it's a reputable source before you buy anything and pay attention to contact information and return policies as a physical address and working phone number should be present in the contact section of legitimate sites.

Roommate/rental scam

Scammers pose as someone selling or renting a property or as someone on behalf of a property owner and solicit money from potential renters in exchange for promises the homes will be shown to them or rented to them after the payment is completed. However, victims realize the scam when there isn't a property for rent or the property is already occupied.

Credit cards

Do your research if you're applying for a credit card for the first time as students are often targeted with misleading credit card offers that could be an identity theft attempt or may charge excessive annual fees and interest rates.

Protect yourself against identity theft

It's important to keep your information private, the state Department of Consumer Protection says.

Criminals can use your personal information to build a fake identity and open new accounts or loans under your name. Since restoring credit and correcting false information can be a costly and lengthy process, it's best to prevent it before it happens.

Whether it’s in a dorm room, online or in any social situation, keep all information and documents containing personal information private and securely guarded.

• Always keep a close hold on your social security number and ask why it’s needed before deciding to share it and/or ask if you can use a different kind of identifier.
• Personal documents, checkbooks, credit card statements and other personal papers should always be locked securely.
• When searching for and applying for student loans or other applications for financial aid, never share personal information via the phone or internet unless you have initiated contact.
• Shred pre-approved credit card offers and bills before disposing of them.

Practice online safety

Be cautious on social media : Posts often unintentionally reveal sensitive information and cybercriminals look for content that can reveal answers to security questions used to reset passwords, making accounts vulnerable to identity theft.

Avoid downloading free music, games or apps: Often, the free apps, music and games are tainted with keystroke logging malware.

Avoid using public Wi-Fi or computers to shop online or pay bills, monitor privacy settings on all your online accounts and before getting rid of your old laptop or smartphone, protect your data so it doesn’t end up in the hands of an identity thief.

Staying safe in your college dorm

Fires are one of the biggest hazards for students living on campus as the National Fire Protection Association reports fire departments responded to over 3,000 fires at dormitories, sororities, fraternities and other related structures between 2017-2021.

In addition to checking your dormitory for fire hazards, the state's Department of Consumer Protection suggests you follow these tips as well:

• Locate the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms within your dorm or off-campus housing: Verify or obtain assurances that all alarms are in proper working order. Participate in any needed safety demonstrations on campus.
• Check for working sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers: Most at risk are those staying in off-campus housing where these systems are not regulated by the university.
• Locate the nearest emergency exits: Make note of where to go if there is an emergency.
• Never overload outlets with too many demands for power to prevent fires: Students with laptops, televisions, mini-refrigerators and more can overload the outlet and spark a fire.
• Review the emergency plan in case of fire or a carbon monoxide leak: Ensure all those residing in the room know where to meet and what to do if there is an emergency. Remember to call 911 in case of any emergency and follow safety protocol.

Emily Barnes is the New York State Team consumer advocate reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @byemilybarnes . Get in touch at ebarnes@gannett.com .

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: College students at risk of scams in NY. How to avoid them