If a college is caught manipulating statistics on admissions and yield, that is a very, very serious matter and a condemnable charge. No self-respecting college would want that notoriety.
USNWR and all the other educational sites are well aware of this issue.
And, of course it cuts both ways !
Of course high schoolers note all of the details. Hats off to due diligence among high school students, counselors, teachers, etc.