ICE Warns Immigrants to Protect Themselves Against Romance Scams
Key Takeaways
- ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is warning people about romance scams that target immigrants seeking relationships and immigration help.
- Scammers often ask for money, personal documents, or help navigating visa processes; payments and gift cards to individuals will not speed up official immigration benefits.
- Victims should verify identities, protect personal information (like Social Security numbers and immigration case numbers), and report scams to IC3, the FTC, local police, and ICE/HSI.
- These scams can lead to financial loss, identity theft, and complications in legitimate immigration cases.
Overview
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) has posted guidance aimed at people who may be targeted by online romance schemes. These frauds typically begin on social media or dating apps and then move to private messaging. It has been reported that scammers sometimes impersonate U.S. government or military personnel or claim they can help with visas and relocation — claims meant to build trust and extract money or sensitive documents.
How the scams work
Scammers commonly request transfers of funds, gift cards, or copies of identity and immigration paperwork. They may promise to pay for travel, claim to sponsor a visa, or offer to “speed up” migration. These promises are fraudulent: only federal agencies — primarily USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) and the Department of State for consular visas — can adjudicate immigration benefits, and official fees and processes are posted publicly on their websites. Sending money or documents to a private individual does not change the legal process.
Protecting yourself and reporting
Protect your personal identifiers (Social Security number, passport, A-number) and never send money or gift cards to someone you haven’t met in person and verified. Verify any person who claims a government or military affiliation by using official channels. Report suspected scams to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), local law enforcement, and to HSI through ICE tip reporting mechanisms. Victims should also preserve communications and transaction records for investigators.
What this means for immigrants now
For people pursuing family-based visas, fiancée(e) petitions, adjustment of status, or other immigration routes, the warning is immediate: don’t let a stranger’s promise substitute for official filings and fee payments. Falling victim to a romance scam can cause financial harm and identity theft that may delay or complicate legitimate immigration applications. If you suspect fraud, act quickly to report it and secure your personal information.
Source: Original Article