LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Those benefiting from the Federal Student Loan Debt Forgiveness Program announced by President Biden last week need to be on the lookout for scammers.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is warning Michiganders that scammers are seeking to take advantage borrowers by seemingly helping them to get their relief quickly and efficiently.
One main tip offered by Nessel is to not provide personal or financial information in response to unsolicited emails, phone calls, or texts claiming to be from the federal government or a company saying they’ll be able to assist with getting the relief.
Nessel went onto to say that the opportunity for debt forgiveness is also an opportunity for scammers to try and gain to your personal and financial information. She said, “It is important to remember that the federal government will not proactively email or text you to take advantage of this program. Residents should rely on legitimate sources for information and not fall for messages that create a sense of urgency or demand financial information.”
Other tips offered:
- Don’t agree to pay anyone for assistance in obtaining this relief.
- Don’t be rushed. To get you to act fast, scammers say you could miss qualifying for repayment plans, loan consolidation, or loan forgiveness programs if you don’t sign up right away. Take your time and check it out.
- Don’t give away your FSA ID. Some scammers claim they need your FSA ID to help you, but don’t share your FSA ID with anyone. Dishonest people could use that information to get into your account and steal your identity.
Those who wish to make a report about potential scams, can do so with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection team by filing a complaint online or by calling 877-765-8388.
