As the student loan landscape continues to evolve, borrowers face shifting deadlines, confusion, and uncertainty. As of September 1, 2023, the student loan payment pause has been lifted. Interest is again accruing on federal student loans and payments are coming due in October. Return to repayment—along with other developments on student loans—will give scammers an opportunity to try to trick borrowers into handing over their money or personal information.

Borrowers must stay alert and take steps to protect their finances. Follow these tips to protect yourself from student loan scams when repayments begins:

  • Never pay upfront fees when getting help with your debt. Free assistance is available through your federal student loan servicer. You can find out who services your loans on your Federal Student Aid account.
  • Don’t trust anyone pressuring you to decide something quickly or promising instant help with your student loans. No company can help you circumvent the federal government’s student loan process, and legitimate companies will not use aggressive tactics to pressure you into a contract.
  • Be skeptical of anyone who contacts you claiming to represent the Department of Education or your student loan servicer. Never give any personal or financial information to someone who contacts you. If you have any concerns, contact the Department of Education or your loan servicer directly to verify that you are speaking with the appropriate entity.

For more information, visit our website at ncdoj.gov/studentloanscams. If you believe that you have been the victim of a scam, contact the Consumer Protection Division:

  • Online at ncdoj.gov/complaint or by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM
NCDOJ (2023, September 7). Don't Fall for Student Loan Repayment Scams.  North Carolina Department of Justice. Retrieved October, 2023, from
https://ncdoj.gov/consumer-alert-dont-fall-for-student-loan-repayment-scams/