Across the country, community members are reporting a rise in immigration-related scams targeting immigrants, international students, and families seeking legal status. These scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated — often using technology, social media, and impersonations of government officials to steal money and personal information.
At Odunlami Law, we know how overwhelming the immigration process can feel. When people are searching for answers, they deserve clear guidance and trustworthy legal support. Understanding how these scams work can help protect you and your loved ones.
Below is a summary of the most common scams reported recently and the steps you can take to stay safe.
Scammers Are Posing as Immigration Attorneys and Government Officials
Reports show that scammers have been pretending to be licensed immigration attorneys, accredited representatives, or officials from agencies such as USCIS or ICE. They may:
- Create professional-looking social media pages or ads
- Use fake documents
- Impersonate lawyers using AI-generated videos, photos, or voices
- Stage fake video calls that look like court hearings or USCIS interviews
- Ask for sensitive information such as passports, birth certificates, or immigration documents
Some people have even received phone calls from individuals pretending to be ICE agents claiming that they failed to file an AR-11 change-of-address form — and threatening fines, imprisonment, or deportation. These calls often come from “spoofed” numbers that look like real government phone lines.
Important to remember:
Government agencies such as USCIS or ICE do not call people to threaten deportation, demand payment, or ask for personal information over the phone.
Social Media Is a Major Target for Immigration Scams
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has warned that scammers use platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok, and Instagram to target people in their preferred language. A typical scam may look like this:
- You like, follow, or comment on an immigration-related post
- The scammer messages you claiming to be an attorney or a representative who can “guarantee” a work permit, green card, or citizenship
- They ask you to send money through apps like Zelle or Western Union
- They schedule a fake “USCIS appointment” on WhatsApp or Zoom with someone dressed like an officer
Reality check:
USCIS never sends appointment notices through social media or messenger apps. Official notices arrive by mail or appear in your MyUSCIS online account.
Warning Signs of an Immigration Scam
Be cautious if someone:
- Guarantees results such as a green card, visa, or citizenship
- Pressures you to act quickly or threatens consequences
- Requests large upfront payments or demands payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or money apps
- Asks you to sign blank forms or refuses to give you a written contract
- Directs you to a website that doesn’t end in .gov
- Claims to be a government officer calling you about deportation or missed paperwork
If it sounds too good to be true — it usually is.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
Verify Before You Trust
Before sharing information or paying for services, make sure the person helping you is truly qualified. A few minutes of verification can prevent serious problems later.
- Confirm a lawyer’s license through your state bar association.
- Look up accredited representatives and recognized organizations on the U.S. Department of Justice website.
- Get referrals from friends or trusted community members.
Use Trusted Sources of Information
Accurate immigration information always comes from official government websites and accounts. Relying on the right sources helps you avoid misleading or predatory advice.
- Visit USCIS.gov for accurate immigration updates.
- Download forms for free directly from USCIS — no one should charge you for blank forms.
- Check your case status through your secure USCIS account.
Protect Your Personal Information
Scammers often pressure people to reveal personal details. Protecting your identity and documents is essential to keeping your case safe.
- Never share personal or immigration details with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- Government officials do not ask for money or sensitive information over the phone.
If You Receive a Suspicious Call
Scam calls can sound convincing, but you have the right to end the conversation and verify the information elsewhere. If you receive a suspicious call:
- Do not engage — hang up immediately.
- Contact an immigration attorney if you’re unsure whether something is legitimate.
- Report suspected scams to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or by calling (877) 382-4357.
When in Doubt, Seek Trusted Legal Help
Immigration scams thrive because families are trying to navigate a complex process and are often under stress or pressure. You do not have to face that alone. Speaking with a licensed immigration attorney can give you clarity about your situation and help you avoid mistakes that could harm your case.
Odunlami Law is committed to supporting immigrants with compassion, integrity, and reliable legal guidance. If you are unsure whether someone who contacted you is legitimate, or if you believe you may have been targeted by a scam, our team can help you understand your options.
