AG urges consumer caution in college aid pitches

You know those paid offers you get when you or your high-schooler is scraping around for financial aid money to go to college, the ones that say for a small fee and some personal information you could get the latest deal on a student loan? Start thinking of them like the prince from Nairobi who e-mailed you that "urgent message" last week. 

Attorney General Bob Cooper issued a warning Thursday about letters being circulated with official-looking seals — including some made to mimic state government documents — trying to obtain a fee or extensive personal information about prospective students. 

"These businesses send letters that appear as if they are affiliated with a university, when in fact they are not,” Cooper said. “Companies like these are trying to gain a student’s or parent’s trust simply to make money for a service the parent or student can obtain for free."

The deadline to apply for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to be eligible for the Tennessee Student Assistance Award [1] is Feb. 15. 

The attorney general's office is asking students and parents to consult with universities about financial assistance. 

Call the state's Division of Consumer Affairs (1-800-342-8385 or 741-4737) or click here [2] with questions or to file a complaint against a company for deceptive tactics.