# Beware of Scammers Capitalizing on Student Loan Forgiveness Announcements
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## Unrequested Debt Relief Phone Calls are Likely Scams
Though the federal government can indeed make phone calls, don’t expect a call regarding student loan forgiveness. According to Mark Kantrowitz, a CNET Money Expert Review Board member, the Department of Education does not contact individuals via calls due to their inadequate staffing. If you doubt a call’s authenticity, disconnect and call the official phone line. So if you’re asked to take action or share financial information over the phone, it’s safe to assume it’s a scam.
## Email Scams Can Be Tricky but Look for the Telltale Signs
Differentiating genuine from scam emails can be challenging, especially when browsing your inbox on a mobile device. Kantrowitz advises borrowers to check for a .gov email address, as most student loan forgiveness communications will utilize this domain. However, watch out for emails with minor alterations to the official domain, a tactic frequently used by scammers.
## Beware of Text Message Links
When receiving text messages, the Department of Education only uses two unique numbers: 227722 and 51592. Messages from alternative numbers should be treated with caution. According to Kantrowitz, communication from the department will supply information and won’t press you to click on a link or fill in an online form.
## Requests for Upfront Payments Are Clear Scam Indicators
Paying attention to a caller’s request can help identify scams. If they want upfront fees or your authorization to negotiate on your behalf, it’s probably a scam. Applying for loan forgiveness doesn’t entail upfront expenses; in fact, most of the time, you’ll be automatically granted relief. Also, no charges will occur when consolidating your student loans via the Department of Education.
## If You Suspect You’ve Been Scammed
If you’re worried you’ve been targeted by a scam, start by contacting your federal loan service provider promptly. Ensure no recent modifications were made to your account. If a fee was paid, tell your bank or credit card provider to stop the transaction. Subsequently, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau online. Depending on the extent of your shared information, further identity theft might occur, so monitor your credit report and freeze your credit if further account creation is feared. Identity theft protection can offer additional defense against potential data breaches.
Recommended Reads
– 25 Million Americans Could See their Student Loan Debt Nullified Under Biden’s Recent Plan
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– An Additional 277,000 Borrowers Received Student Loan Forgiveness Last Week. Here’s How You Can Too
– Student Loan Scams Are Surging. Here’s What Borrowers Need to Know
– Preparing for the Resumption of Student Loan Payments in October
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