The federal initiative seeks to block identity theft, protect taxpayer dollars, and support legitimate students and institutions.
The U.S. Department of Education is launching a nationwide anti-fraud initiative in fall 2025 to prevent identity theft in federal student aid programs. In response to growing concerns over fraudulent applications, particularly those involving advanced fraud networks, the department will require identity verification for certain first-time applicants enrolling in the upcoming summer term.
Federal Student Aid officials report that current fraud levels pose a serious threat to the integrity of Title IV aid programs and some institutions have incurred millions in losses. This effort follows a series of previously announced anti-fraud actions seeking to protect taxpayer funds while easing administrative demands on colleges.
“When rampant fraud is taking aid away from eligible students, disrupting the operations of colleges, and ripping off taxpayers, we have a responsibility to act,” said Secretary Linda McMahon. “We will continue to build longer-term solutions that reduce the administrative burden on institutions and protect American taxpayers who underwrite federal student aid programs.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For discernment for Secretary McMahon as she implements policies to address fraud in Title IV programs.
- For officials in the Office of Federal Student Aid as they seek to verify the identities of student borrowers and prevent fraud.
Sources: Department of Education
