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.