From Vacation to Backpacks: How to Avoid Summer and School Scams

As summer is wrapping up and back-to-school season approaches, scammers are shifting their tactics to match the moment. Whether you're booking a last-minute getaway or shopping for school supplies, it's prime time for fraudsters to strike.

Here’s a quick guide to the most common scams right now—and how to stay ahead of them.

Summer Scams to Watch

Fake Vacation Rentals
Scammers post listings for dream getaways—often at unbeatable prices—then disappear once they’ve received payment.

How to protect yourself:

• Book through trusted travel sites with verified reviews.
• Avoid paying with wire transfers or payment apps.
• Be cautious of listings that only communicate via email or text.

Travel Deal Phishing
Emails or texts offering “exclusive” travel deals may lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal or banking information.

How to protect yourself:

• Don’t click on links from unknown senders.
• Visit travel sites directly by typing the URL.
• Use your credit union’s card for added fraud protection.

Back-to-School Scams

Student Loan Forgiveness Scams
With ongoing changes to federal loan programs, scammers are posing as “relief agents” offering to help—for a fee.

How to protect yourself:

• Real programs don’t charge upfront fees.
• Visit studentaid.gov for accurate info.
• Never share your personal details.

Online Shopping Scams
Fraudulent websites are popping up with deep discounts on laptops, tablets, and school supplies—only to vanish after payment.

How to protect yourself:

• Stick to well-known retailers.
• Look for secure URLs (https://) and contact info.
• Use secure payment methods like your credit union debit or credit card.

🛡️ Your Credit Union Has Your Back

At U.S. Eagle, we’re committed to protecting our members from fraud. From secure online banking tools to real-time fraud alerts, we’re here to help you bank with confidence.

If you ever feel unsure about a transaction or message, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re just a call or visit away.

✅ Stay Smart, Stay Safe

Scammers are always adapting—but so are we. By staying informed and cautious, you can enjoy the rest of your summer and head into fall with peace of mind.