What's Happening?
Community colleges are facing a new threat from 'ghost students,' a term used to describe digital thieves who steal identities to fraudulently obtain student financial aid. ABC News' Steve Osunsami reports
on how these scams are costing Americans hundreds of millions of dollars. The rise of such fraudulent activities poses significant challenges for educational institutions, which must now implement more robust security measures to protect against identity theft and financial fraud.
Why It's Important?
The emergence of 'ghost students' highlights vulnerabilities in the financial aid system and the broader issue of identity theft. This type of fraud not only affects the financial stability of educational institutions but also undermines trust in the system. It can lead to increased scrutiny and regulatory changes, potentially impacting how financial aid is distributed. Addressing this issue is crucial for protecting students' identities and ensuring that financial aid reaches those who genuinely need it.
