Young college students are more susceptible to falling for scams that give them a "little financial relief" this semester.  Don't be the next victim.

I didn't want to go away to school, so I stayed right here in Rockford and went to community college (wayyyy cheaper!).

College didn't seem realistic with how expensive it is to even attend.  You have to pay for books, school supplies, room and board, bedding for your dorm, and even stock up on food and toiletries.  That's only the start!

Of course, when you're tight on money as a poor college student, you search for ways to get financial relief in every way possible.

That's where scammers love to exploit you for every dollar you have.

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Here Are 4 Scams Illinois College Students Need To Watch Out For & Avoid

Fake credit cards

Being given a huge limit on a credit card can put you in serious debt already, but scammers love to make "fake" applications to steal your personal information.

Too good to be true apartments

We all want to live in the best area in a college town & scammers know that!  If an apartment is "too affordable", it's tempting to put down a deposit, first month's rent, and last month's rent right away.  Make sure it's legitimate.

Scholarship and grant scams

Show me the money!  Yep, we all would love a full-ride scholarship and free money toward books and tuition.  Before filling out an application online, double-check the website's reviews and see if others have actually had good luck.

Test preparation scams

Don't be expelled for cheating... scammers will blackmail you into sending funds out of fear of being expelled for "cheating" on tests.  It's two nightmares in one!

If you're a parent trying to prepare your kiddos for the real world, teach them a few ways to stay safe and far away from scams in this next chapter of their life.