
The Attorney General for Oregon, Ellen Rosenblum, has issued a warning to student loan borrowers as they prepare to continue repayments on federal loans in October 2023. Beware of scams specifically devised to defraud loan borrowers.
The most frequently occurring scams include:
* Scammers promising reduced monthly payments for a fee
* Schemes offering loan forgiveness negotiation services for a fee
* Fraudulent calls claiming past due amounts and urging immediate phone payments
Remember, no one should charge you for applying to government student loan relief programs. If they demand payment upfront, it’s likely a scam. Offers of instant loan forgiveness are a telltale sign of fraudulent activities.
Contents
Advice for Student Loan Borrowers
Aside from staying vigilant against scams, Attorney General Rosenblum has some additional recommendations for all loan borrowers:
* Keep your contact information up-to-date on [studentaid.gov](https://oregonconsumer.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d77e768897b0ca44106cc017&id=277c166d3c&e=6bd37f73c7)
* Explore feasible repayment plans or use the loan simulator at [studentaid.gov](https://oregonconsumer.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d77e768897b0ca44106cc017&id=c1b2ec14a9&e=6bd37f73c7) to find a suitable plan
* Consider autopay to potentially receive a reduced interest rate
* Evaluate your eligibility for loan forgiveness on [studentaid.gov](https://oregonconsumer.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d77e768897b0ca44106cc017&id=6cb2bd67d0&e=6bd37f73c7)
If you encounter issues with your student loan servicer, consider filing a complaint with the following organizations:
* The Consumer Protection Section of the Oregon Department of Justice at [www.oregonconsumer.gov](https://oregonconsumer.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d77e768897b0ca44106cc017&id=00dca1d330&e=6bd37f73c7)
* Oregon’s Student Loan Ombudsman via email
* Consumer Financial Protection Bureau online at [https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/](https://oregonconsumer.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d77e768897b0ca44106cc017&id=382c4346c9&e=6bd37f73c7)
* Federal Student Aid Ombudsman online at [https://studentaid.gov/feedback-center/](https://oregonconsumer.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d77e768897b0ca44106cc017&id=97afe39013&e=6bd37f73c7)
More information is available on the Oregon Attorney General’s Student Loan Debt Spotlight page at [https://www.doj.state.or.us/oregon-department-of-justice/office-of-the-attorney-general/spotlight-student-loan-debt/](https://www.doj.state.or.us/oregon-department-of-justice/office-of-the-attorney-general/spotlight-student-loan-debt/).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I protect myself from student loan scams?
Be cautious of anyone promising instant loan forgiveness or reduced payments for a fee. No legitimate entity should request upfront payment. Always check the credentials of anyone offering student loan services. Keep your contact information up-to-date with your loan servicer.
2. What steps should I take if I suspect a scam?
If you suspect fraudulent activity, don’t give out any personal information. Report the incident to your loan servicer, the Consumer Protection Section of the Oregon Department of Justice, or the Federal Student Aid Ombudsman.
3. Where can I find legitimate help for managing my student loans?
For legitimate assistance, visit the official U.S. government site for student aid, [studentaid.gov](https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/). You can explore repayment options and even find out if you qualify for loan forgiveness. The site also has a loan simulator to help you determine the best repayment plan for your situation.