During the past year, immigration lawyers and non-profits have reported a sharp increase in scams targeting non-citizens. From the scammers' perspective, there is a sad logic to this: It is easier to take advantage of vulnerable and desperate people, and these days, non-citizens are more vulnerable and desperate than ever.

The harm caused by these scams is not only financial. Immigrants can lose their opportunity to remain in the United States and face deportation as a result of the fraudulent schemes. Lawyers and non-profits are also harmed, as scammers are essentially stealing their identity in order to defraud non-citizens.

Fortunately, there are precautions people can take to protect themselves, and here, we will discuss some ideas about how to stay safe.
According to AILA, the American Immigration Lawyers Association, although unauthorized practitioners of immigration law "have long exploited vulnerable individuals, mid-2025 brought a wave of more coordinated and sophisticated schemes"--
The schemes typically involve scammers presenting themselves as lawyers or accredited representatives—sometimes claiming affiliation with a nonprofit or reputable private firm. They offer guaranteed results or fast approvals and instruct clients to send payments of $5,000 to as much as $30,000. In some cases, scammers file fraudulent applications that jeopardize immigration eligibility; in others, they file nothing at all or merely pretend to file. Some even stage fake virtual “court hearings,” impersonating judges or government officials, giving fake rulings, and demanding more funds. Once money is collected, the scammer usually disappears.

It seems that the majority of scammers solicit business through online ads, on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. They impersonate actual attorneys and organizations, and so it is not enough to verify that a particular attorney or organization exists. You have to be sure that the person you are talking to (or sending money to) is actually the person or organization that they claim to be. How can you do that?

Of course, the most reliable way to find a lawyer is through a source you trust, such as a friend or family member, or a legitimate non-profit organization. If you talk to the lawyer or--better yet--meet the lawyer in person, that will help avoid scammers. You can also search for a lawyer on a reputable website, such as AILA Find an Immigration Lawyer (keep in mind that not all immigration lawyers appear on this list). You can find legitimate non-profit legal service providers on the U.S. Department of Justice list, and even if these groups do not have the capacity to assist you, they may be able to recommend someone who can.

It is also a good idea to be wary of online ads. Google the organization or lawyer to learn more; don't just click on an ad and follow the link, since it may lead to a fake website. Avoid ads that pressure you to act quickly by offering a discount or scaring you. Also, be careful of websites that request payment in unusual ways, such as paying in crypto or gift cards.

Every lawyer is a member of a bar association that regulates the lawyer's conduct. If you identify a lawyer you want to hire, you can visit the website for the lawyer's state bar association to verify that the lawyer is admitted to practice law. Keep in mind that immigration lawyers can practice before USCIS, the Immigration Courts, and the BIA even if they have an out-of-state license. Also, the big concern with scammers is that they are pretending to be people who they are not, and so just because a lawyer exists and is a member of the bar, does not mean that you are actually talking to that lawyer. Independently verifying the lawyer's information (as opposed to relying only on a link in an advertisement) will help avoid hiring an impostor.

There are certain requirements that legitimate lawyers and legal agencies must follow, and if your lawyer is not following these rules, it is a sign that something is wrong. First, lawyers are required to provide written agreements with their clients. Any lawyer or non-profit that does not provide a written agreement (and give you a copy of that agreement ) should be avoided. The terms of the agreement should include how much you will pay, the payment plan, and what services the lawyer will provide to you. Also, when you pay money to the lawyer, you should get a written receipt. In addition, lawyers should speak to you honestly. Be careful of people who over-promise, or who push you to make a payment quickly (on the other hand, there are real emergencies where it is necessary to obtain representation quickly--but the lawyer should explain this to you). Finally, don't be afraid to trust your own instincts. If somethings feels wrong, it may be worthwhile to take some time to investigate further or get a second opinion.

If you have been a victim of fraud, you can report the incident to the EOIR Fraud and Abuse Prevention Program (at the U.S. Department of Justice). You can also report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission, USCIS or local law enforcement. Victims of immigration fraud should also seek help from a legitimate immigration attorney, who can try to mitigate the problem and advise you about next steps.

Fraud is a particularly insidious crime, as the victims often feel that they are at fault for being scammed. In my experience, this is not the case. Because they are new to the country and culture, and are often isolated or unable to speak fluent English, non-citizens are especially vulnerable to fraud. Taking your time, investigating attorneys before you hire, and asking questions are the best ways to stay safe. And if you fall victim to fraud, don't blame yourself. Seek help--there are many good lawyers and organizations who are ready to assist. By exposing scammers and standing up for your rights, you can protect yourself and help protect others as well.

Originally posted on the Asylumist: www.Asylumist.com