Student Suspected Fraud

Why would I request this service?

You might request this service if:

  • You suspect there is something suspicious about how an enrolled student is verifying their financial and/or demographic information
  • You suspect there is a "fake" student enrolled in a course
  • A student reports that their identity was stolen, and they have never actually enrolled at the college
  • A student account is being used for fraudulent or deceptive purposes

Definitions:

Student Financial Aid Fraud is the act of intentionally misrepresenting or falsifying information to obtain financial aid or other educational funds to which one is not entitled. This can include providing false income details, misreporting family size or status, using a stolen identity to apply for aid, or falsely claiming enrollment or attendance at an institution. The goal of such fraud is often to secure grants, loans, or scholarships intended for eligible students, potentially diverting funds from those in genuine need.

Student Identity Fraud involves the unauthorized use of another person’s identity to obtain educational or financial benefits, including enrollment, financial aid, or other student services, without the knowledge or consent of the person whose identity is used. This type of fraud can involve using stolen or falsified personal information, such as Social Security numbers, birthdates, or other identifying details, to impersonate a legitimate student. The primary objectives are often to access financial aid funds, receive tuition benefits, or obtain resources reserved for enrolled students. Other types of fraud involve malicious use of a student email account to obtain the private information of others through impersonations or by sending phishing emails to fool recipients to disclose private information.  This type of fraud needs to be reported to the Service Desk or with your Macomb e-mail by clicking the option to report emails as phishing or as junk.

Who can request this service?

  • Any college staff or faculty member can file a report.

Additional details about the Service.

This form should only be used for reporting suspected student fraud. Academic integrity issues are managed by the Office of Student Conduct and Resolution and should be reported using the Academic Integrity Violations form.  Any suspected fraud related to an employee should be reported to either your supervisor or Human Resources. 

What happens after I submit the request?

Once the ticket is submitted, it will be directed to the Macomb Fraud Taskforce for review. A Taskforce member may contact you if they need additional information, but please note that these tickets are confidential. You may not have access to updates or the final resolution of the case.