[Scam Alert] Online Class and Homework Cheating Services

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Online class and homework cheating services have become a concerning issue for colleges and universities because they often lead to extortion and blackmail. Plagarism Today explains why:

The reason is simple: The victim of the scam has little to no recourse, since they were acting unethically themselves. These scams can run the gamut from simply taking the money and running to out-and-out blackmail … Exam help sites usually require turning over the student’s login to take the test for them, this gives the would-be scammer a lot more information to threaten the student with. Scammers can directly contact professors, lock students out of their accounts, gather other personal information about the student and more. Depending on the information behind that login, they may be able to access other sites and services that the student uses. In short, students that use essay help services aren’t just paying money to someone who might not come through, but they are turning over the keys to their academic lives

Here’s how these scams work:

  1. [Initial Contact] Struggling students often search online for tutoring companies that promise to complete their assignments. These “tutors” don’t teach the material but instead offer to do the work for a fee.
  2. [Payment and Deception] Victims pay a couple of hundred dollars for “help” with assignments, especially in subjects like math and technology. However, things will take an unexpected turn. The service will begin demanding more money for software or research.
  3. [Extortion Tactics] When students refuse to pay the additional fees, the “tutor” turns hostile. They will expose the student as a cheater by contacting every instructor they can find in the student’s D2L account.

Tips to Avoid Falling Victim:

  • [Referrals] Visit the GHC Tutorial Center! If a GHC tutor isn’t available, seek recommendations from friends, family, and teachers for tutors. Legitimate tutors should NEVER access your GHC accounts or be given access to your password or Duo Security codes.
  • [Check References] Ask for references from individual tutors or tutoring services and speak to at least three of them.
  • [Discuss Terms Upfront] Clearly define availability, rates, and any additional charges before starting tutoring sessions.

Remember, hiring someone to complete your school assignments is considered cheating and sharing your login credentials with anyone is a serious violation of our Acceptable Use policy. If you need help with your classes, opt for legitimate tutoring services rather than falling prey to extortion scams.

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