The Indiana Secretary of State sees 40 to 50 new cases of fraud each day, and many of those cases involve young people — including college students.
Connie Lawson spoke to address the importance of student fraud prevention in a Finance Society presentation Sept. 14.
There were 140 fraud cases at Ball State last year where employees dealt with tax fraud and identity thefts.
The presentation attracted upwards of 835 students — more than expected — said finance professor and Finance Society Adviser Dan Boylan.
“We didn’t aim to focus on any of the recent fraud situations we’ve had here,” Boylan said. “Most of the reason why we brought her in was for outreach to the Ball State community, something positive that they can use and relate to in their daily lives.”
Lawson, who has worked in Indiana legislation for nearly three decades, discussed how students could protect their finances and investments during and after college.
“College students are prime targets, today,” Lawson said. “You are your own best line of defense, and it’s important that awareness and protection starts now.”
Since taking the position as Secretary of State, Lawson said her office is responsible for handling 858 criminal charges for fraud-related crimes, and more than 190 years of prison time for those convicted.
“A lot of fraud crimes happen in this state, although we like to think they don’t,” Lawson said.
Kyle Callahan, junior finance major and president of the Finance Society, helped coordinate Lawson’s visit in hopes that other students will gain more awareness. He said he believes conversations about fraud are important because most college students are spending money, and that increases risks for fraud.
“Being safe with money and our investments is something we should be really cautious about, especially as young people in a highly technological and information-accessible society,” Callahan said.
Boylan echoed Callahan’s advice, adding that he too is more careful now than ever before.
“Lots of people are out to get your information, and students need to be especially aware of what dangers they could face,” Boylan said. “Taking extra precautions with your social security number, email, important documents—it’s all very prevalent today, and that’s really why we wanted to bring [Lawson] in to address this topic.”
Lawson said providing personal information is leading to fraudulent scholarships, loans and grants becoming more common among college students.
“I encourage you to live like a professional while you’re in college so you can live like a student—without problems—when you leave Ball State,” Lawson said, regarding credit card safety.
If students find themselves falling victim to fraud or crimes involving investments, Lawson recommended contacting the Indiana State Secretary’s Office immediately.
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