Greg's Corner

Scammers Target Immigrants with Fake Fees

By Greg Collier

In the wake of heightened immigration enforcement, authorities are warning about an emerging scam targeting vulnerable individuals. Scammers, posing as law enforcement officers or government officials, attempt to exploit fears of deportation by demanding money in exchange for supposed protection or relief. This scheme follows a well-documented pattern seen in other fraudulent operations, where bad actors take advantage of fear and uncertainty to extract money from their victims.

These scams typically involve phone calls or messages claiming that a person, or their family member, is at risk of deportation. The scammers, using sophisticated technology such as phone number spoofing, make their calls appear to come from legitimate agencies. They pressure their targets into paying fees, often through untraceable methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. In some cases, they go further, falsely promising expedited citizenship or legal residency for a price. Authorities stress that these offers are fraudulent, as legitimate legal processes never involve direct payments to individuals over the phone.

Law enforcement officials emphasize that no government agency or police department will ever demand money in exchange for halting deportation proceedings or offering legal status. Any such request should be considered a red flag. Those receiving these calls are encouraged to hang up immediately, avoid engaging with the scammers, and report the incident to law enforcement.

To protect against these scams, individuals should verify any official-sounding claims directly with the appropriate government agency. Checking official websites, consulting trusted legal professionals, and avoiding unsolicited requests for payment can help prevent falling victim to these deceptive tactics. Community organizations and immigration attorneys can also offer guidance on legitimate pathways to citizenship and legal status, ensuring that those seeking assistance are not misled by false promises.

As with past scams targeting seniors and disaster victims, fraudsters continually adapt their tactics to exploit new situations. Raising awareness and staying informed is crucial in preventing financial and emotional harm. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious calls or messages to help prevent further victimization.