In the murky depths of the internet, a peculiar phenomenon has emerged – the rise of “zombie colleges.” These institutions, once defunct in the physical realm, have been resurrected online, shrouded in mystery and ambiguity.
Aspiring students hoping to pursue higher education find themselves ensnared in a web of deceit and confusion.
A recent investigation by USA TODAY delved into the murky world of these zombie universities, uncovering a disturbing trend of counterfeit websites masquerading as legitimate educational institutions. Among them are names like Stratford University, Morrison University, and Jones International, to name a few.
What makes these online entities particularly insidious is their deceptive nature. None of these resurrected universities hold accreditation or are cleared to receive federal financial aid – crucial markers of legitimacy in the education sector. Yet, they lure unsuspecting applicants with promises of academic excellence and career prospects.
Kari Kammel, from Michigan State University’s Center for Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Protection, expressed concern over the potential for identity theft lurking behind these counterfeit sites. Suspicions abound that some may be exploiting applicants by harvesting personal and financial information under false pretenses.
The motives behind these counterfeit universities remain elusive, with little oversight from federal agencies. Despite efforts from concerned parties, including cease-and-desist letters and legal action, many of these imposter websites persist, preying on the vulnerabilities of eager students seeking educational opportunities.
The tangled web of deception extends beyond fake websites, with fabricated personas, fictitious student profiles, and even counterfeit university addresses adding layers to the ruse. The absence of genuine administrative figures and the prevalence of dead-end contact information further deepen the mystery surrounding these institutions.
One of the perplexing aspects is the involvement of individuals like Roy Virgen Jr., CEO of American Education Inc., who has been linked to several of these resurrected universities. Virgen’s company, ostensibly involved in launching new colleges, has raised questions about its role in the proliferation of these counterfeit institutions.
Attempts to uncover the masterminds behind these schemes have proven challenging, with murky connections and elusive perpetrators obscuring the truth. Despite inquiries and investigations, the enigma of zombie colleges persists, leaving a trail of confusion and disillusionment in their wake.
