And to make sure when they're applying online, they're not providing their PIN, which is the number they're given when they apply online, to other individuals and to also shred all personal information that's provided to them in the mail. |
Identity theft, in general, is the fastest growing crime in the United States. Federal student aid is also being impacted. |
It could hurt other students who might want financial aid. There isn't an endless supply of money. |
Often students aren't made aware of it until they actually apply for credit or they apply to get financial aid at an institution. |
So it's easier for identity thieves to take somebody's information and apply online. |
There are more applications being done online. People are sharing information online that makes them vulnerable. |
We find out about it through students calling and also through the financial aid community. |