US Mission Warns Against Visa Scams

Episode Transcript

Speaker 1 (00:04):
The US Mission has issued a public warning against visa scams,
urging applicants to be vigilant for fraudsters posing as visa
consultants or government officials who promise guaranteed visas are faster
processing for a fee. Official US government websites always end
in dot gov, and official entities will never request payment

(00:25):
via unauthorized platforms. Keywarning signs of a visa scam. The
US Mission and Department of State highlights several common signs
of fraudulent activity requests for payment via unauthorized methods. Official
US embassies will never request visa fees via email, phone,

(00:46):
social media, or messaging apps, nor through unofficial channels like
Western Union, PayPal, or specific local payment platforms. Fees are
paid through official portals are at a designation, AID Bank,
Consulate cashier guarantees of visas are faster processing. No third
party or government official can guarantee a visa or expedited

(01:09):
processing and exchange for a fee. Visa application forms are
free on official websites, and the outcome depends solely on
meeting the legal requirements. Suspicious contact information. Official government emails
end in dot gov. Any correspondence from addresses ending in
dot com, dot org, or other extensions should be considered suspect.

(01:34):
Requests for upfront payments for job buffers. Beware of job
offfers from overseas that require you to pay a fee
to secure employment or work visa. Legitimate US government processes
do not involve such upfront payments to individuals or unofficial companies.
Instructions to use false documents. The use of false or

(01:55):
altered documents is a serious offense that can result in
a permanent band from the United States and potential criminal prosecution.
How to protect yourself verify official websites. Always double check
that the website address ends in dot gov before entering
personal information or making any payments. Complete your own forms.

(02:17):
Applicants are encouraged to complete their own application forms. If
you use a third party service, you remain personally responsible
for all information submitted. Be cautious of unsolicited contact. The
US government typically does not notify successful Diversity visa DV
Lottery entrance by email or letter. Applicants must check their

(02:40):
status online through the official DV Entrance status check. What
to do if you suspect fraud. If you believe you
are a victim of a visa scam, take the following steps.
Do not send money, cease all communication, and do not
make any payments. Report to local police, report the crime

(03:01):
tier local law enforcement agency before contacting the US embassy,
and provide the case number for further investigation. You can
report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission FTC. Report
US passports or visa fraud to the Department of States
Diplomatic Security via the DSS Crime Tip's website or email

(03:22):
a passports visa fraud at state doc governor for immigration
benefit fraud interviews. Submit a tip via the US's tip
form for immigration violations. Report to ICE. By staying informed
in using official government resources, you can avoid becoming a
victim of these scams.