Unbelievable-how do they get away with this

When I was first contacted by Performant, they seemed genuine and helpful in my finally dealing with my old student loans 2 years ago, they would consolidate my student loans and as long as I made my payments the account would show current and the default removed from my credit report. 2 years late I check my report (having just resolved half a dozen tax liens, and thinking that it should look better now). Not only are my loans not consolidated, but the reports show ZERO dollars paid-where did all my payments go???? I am now thinking into Performant's pockets. I guess I first need to contact the bank the has my loans and then file a civil suit to get my payments back. I can't believe I fell for a scam,I am a Finance executive and thought I was too savvy to fall for a scam, guess not.