Kankakee, IL – Authorities are warning families in Kankakee County about a phone scam targeting parents of high school students with fake ACT and SAT prep materials.
According to the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are allegedly calling parents and claiming their child requested free study guides or test prep items, such as books or thumb drives containing practice exams. Victims are told the materials are “free,” but a refundable deposit or shipping fee is required. In many cases, the ordered items never arrive, or if they do, they are low-quality and the money is not refunded.
Deputies said callers often claim to represent the ACT, College Board, or a legitimate test prep company. They may use a student’s name, school, or grade level to appear credible before demanding credit card information. Once a payment is made, families allegedly lose their money.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the ACT, SAT, and other legitimate organizations do not cold-call families demanding payment. Officials urged residents to never give out banking or credit card information to unsolicited callers. Families can verify information directly through the official ACT website at act.org or the College Board website at collegeboard.org.
Residents who believe they have been targeted or victimized by this scam are encouraged to report it to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov and notify local law enforcement.
Authorities are asking parents to share the warning with others in the community to help prevent additional families from being taken advantage of during the critical college preparation season.
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