LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — That dream degree could turn into a costly nightmare, Michigan’s attorney general is warning, after a bogus “university” was caught riding the reputation of a real one.

Attorney General Dana Nessel issued a consumer alert on August 8, flagging fraudulent higher-ed websites designed to swipe money and personal information from would-be students. 

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The warning comes after Eastern Michigan University reported a suspicious site—smich.education—posing as “Southeastern Michigan University” to attract applicants looking for online programs. The school says it has no connection to the website.

“Fraudsters know that students and families are making big decisions about education, and they’re exploiting that moment,” Nessel said in a statement. “If something seems suspicious or too good to be true, do your homework before sharing any personal information.”

The AG’s office says fake college websites often tip their hand: missing contact info, non-.edu web addresses, laughably fast “degrees,” untraceable payment demands like gift cards or cryptocurrency, sloppy grammar, or over-the-top ad tactics.

As for “Southeastern Michigan University,” the site remains under review while Nessel’s office weighs potential action.