https://www.siliconvalley.com/2023/06/15/3-3-million-going-to-students-scammed-by-oc-based-debt-relief-company/ > Federal regulators are sending payments totaling $3.3 million to students who were bilked by an Orange County business claiming it would reduce their student loan debt. > The Federal Trade Commission alleges Arete Financial Group and its related businesses tricked more than 37,800 students into making illegal, upfront payments of up to $1,800, along with subsequent monthly fees, by pretending to be affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education.