Impersonation
Student Loan Forgiveness Scams
Scammers contact student loan borrowers with promises of immediate debt forgiveness or reduction, for a fee.
How It Works
- You receive a call, email, or text about a "limited-time" government program for student loan forgiveness (e.g., "Biden Loan Forgiveness").
- The scammer pressures you to act fast before the program "expires."
- They ask for an upfront or monthly fee to "process" your application or "consolidate" your loans.
- They may also ask for your Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID and password, giving them full access to your loan account.
Red Flags
- Promises of fast or immediate loan forgiveness.
- Any demand for an upfront fee. Legitimate government programs do not charge for assistance.
- Requests for your FSA ID, password, or other sensitive personal information.
- High-pressure tactics and claims of "special access" to government programs.
Prevention Tips
- Never pay an upfront fee for help with student loans. Legitimate assistance is free.
- Do not share your FSA ID or password with anyone.
- Get official information about loan forgiveness and repayment options directly from the U.S. Department of Education at StudentAid.gov.
- Ignore any unsolicited offers. If you need help, you initiate the contact.
Example Scenario
"You receive a call from "Student Debt Relief" guaranteeing that for a one-time fee of $800, they can get your entire federal student loan balance forgiven through a new, exclusive program."