A cybersecurity expert from North Perth, Ontario, has warned families about an emerging scam referred to as ghost student scams. This fraudulent scheme involves perpetrators taking out college loans using the identities of children, often without the parents' knowledge. As families prepare for the back-to-school season in September, the expert has highlighted that this time is especially risky for identity theft involving students who may not yet have established credit histories.
The expert elaborates on how these scams are perpetrated, typically through various online tactics that exploit parental trust and children's personal information. Many families are unaware that their child's identity can be used to secure loans, and the expert stresses the importance of vigilance, especially during this period when many children are entering or re-entering post-secondary education.
To protect against such fraud, the expert recommends that parents actively monitor their children's personal information and educate them about the risks of identity theft. Steps may include regularly checking credit reports, setting alerts for new credit inquiries, and discussing the importance of safeguarding personal details. As awareness grows, families are urged to take proactive measures to ensure their child's identity remains secure against scam attempts.
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