Recent scamming of online degree hopefuls has been featured in the news lately. Convenience has its price, and in acquiring an online degree, that price is strict vigilance.

With more than 1.2 million Americans enrolled in online college courses, this blurring has become especially pronounced in the realm of education: Though "virtual learning" might be a viable option for busy adults who can't schedule classes at traditional campuses, the trend has birthed online programs at well-respected traditional colleges as well as given the charlatans and hucksters new high-tech methods for juicing suckers.

Is it possible to tell the difference?

This excellent article provides examples of how to tell the authentic from the bogus, and offers tips to protect your trust and wallet. With an already shaky reputation from the spread of "diploma mills," online education is vulnerable to criticism and fear. It would be a shame for stories like these to keep students from achieving their goals.