Maricopa Community Colleges Adopts Platform to Combat Student Application Fraud
In an effort to secure its admissions and financial processes, Maricopa Community Colleges has partnered with A.M. Simpkins and Associates (AMSA) to implement the company's S.A.F.E (Student Application Fraudulent Examination) across the district's 10 institutions.
Designed to combat fraudulent student applications and financial aid scams, S.A.F.E. utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to verify applicant identities, cross-check data in real time, and flag anomalies. The platform boasts end-to-end encryption (both in transit and at rest) and revolving encryption keys to protect sensitive student data.
According to a news release, key features for Maricopa include:
- Multi-level AI-driven Fraud Detection: Customizable algorithms and machine learning models add additional layers of detection to catch fraudulent applications across admissions, enrollment, and financial aid processes.
- Robust Identity Verification: Comprehensive checks help ensure each applicant is authentic before enrollment and disbursement of funds.
- Secure Data Handling: Encryption safeguards protect all data within S.A.F.E., ensuring student information and institutional records remain confidential and tamper-proof.
- Systems Integration Capability: Integrates with Maricopa's existing systems — including Oracle PeopleSoft Campus Solutions and Instructure Canvas — for a unified workflow without disrupting current campus technology.
- Real-Time Alerts & Automated Flagging: Immediate notification of suspicious activity, with automated flags for potentially fraudulent applications.
- Advanced Reporting & Analytics: Detailed dashboards and reports provide insights into fraud trends and risk patterns, empowering administrators to make data-driven decisions and demonstrate compliance efforts.
"We are thrilled to partner with MCCCD in safeguarding the integrity of their admissions and financial aid systems," said Maurice Simpkins, president of A.M. Simpkins and Associates, in a statement. "Given MCCCD's scale and influence, their adoption of S.A.F.E. sends a clear message that advanced fraud prevention is now an essential cornerstone for higher education institutions. Together, we're setting a new benchmark for protecting students and institutional resources against emerging fraud threats."
About the Author
Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at rkelly@1105media.com.