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Attorneys general

Back-to-School Scammers Target Illinoisans, Attorney General Warns

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the start of school approaches, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is cautioning consumers to be vigilant against back-to-school scammers trying to take advantage of students and their families. These scammers trick consumers into paying for services or items they never receive or sharing personal data to steal their identities. Attorney General Raoul advises consumers to use trusted sites, check prices, read reviews, and exercise caution when entering personal information.

Key Takeaways:

  • Consumers should not let stress and expense deter them from doing due diligence when buying school supplies online, getting test prep help, or filling out scholarship applications.
  • Back-to-school scammers often create websites that look like the real thing, but may be fake; consumers should check website addresses carefully.
  • Price checking popular items through multiple retailers can help determine if a deal is too good to be true.
  • Reading reviews of unfamiliar businesses and paying for online purchases with a credit card can provide added protection.
  • Consumers should exercise caution when entering personal information and be wary of hidden costs or purchases that could register them for monthly charges.
  • "Buy now, pay later" plans and other payment deferral mechanisms can come with interest and additional fees that can spike if payment is missed.
  • Consumers should be careful of school supply giveaways and research websites that request personal information, as they may be scams.
  • Scammers may prey on generosity by charging unexpected amounts for "donations" to help students receive school supplies.
  • Attorney General Raoul cautions consumers to be vigilant for test-prep and financial aid scams, as companies may claim to offer exclusive access to scholarships or charge fees to fill out the FAFSA.

Statistics:

  • Limited liability for fraudulent charges on credit cards is generally $50-$100 (Fair Credit Billing Act).
  • 63% of consumers report using the internet to research a company before making an online purchase (Source: Federal Trade Commission).
  • 34% of consumers report being contacted by scammers claiming to offer financial aid or scholarships (Source: Federal Trade Commission).

Sources:

  • Illinois Office of the Attorney General
  • Federal Trade Commission (no specific publication date)

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