With the recent news about a new immigration process for spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens, it's important to stay vigilant. Scammers are taking advantage of this by pretending to offer special access or help for a fee. Let’s break down how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from these deceptive practices.
What's Happening?
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that starting August 19, 2024, some spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens might be eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the country. However, scammers are already on the move, trying to exploit this situation.
Common Immigration Scams
- Fake Access Claims
- How It Works: Scammers will contact you, claiming they have special access to expedite your application for a fee.
- Reality: There is no special or early access. USCIS will only accept applications starting August 19, 2024. Always check uscis.gov/KeepingFamiliesTogether for the latest information.
- Official-Looking Websites
- How It Works: Fraudsters create websites that mimic official government sites to trick you into providing personal information or paying for services.
- Reality: Always ensure you are on the official USCIS website by checking the URL carefully.
- Charging for Free Forms
- How It Works: Scammers might try to charge you for immigration forms that are actually free.
- Reality: All official immigration forms are free and can be accessed on the USCIS website. Never pay for forms or sign blank documents.
How to Protect Yourself
- Verify Information
- Always check official sources for the latest updates. Visit uscis.gov for accurate and current information.
- Find Qualified Help
- Seek assistance from specialized lawyers or accredited representatives. Avoid unauthorized immigration consultants or notaries.
- Never Pay for Forms
- Official forms are free. If someone tries to charge you for them, you're dealing with a scammer.
- Spread the Word
- Even if this new process doesn’t apply to you, share this information with others in immigrant communities to help them avoid scams.
Final Thoughts
Changes in immigration processes can be confusing and stressful, which is exactly what scammers rely on. Stay informed, verify your sources, and seek qualified help. By doing so, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these scams.
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