ABA Alert: Immigration “Service” Scams Are on the Rise – and How to Protect Yourself

ABA Alert: Immigration “Service” Scams Are on the Rise – and How to Protect Yourself

Published on August 27, 2025

The American Bar Association (ABA) has issued a public alert about the rise of fraud committed by fake “immigration specialists,” many of whom pose as attorneys, reputable legal organizations, or claim to have special ties with authorities. The ABA reports even cases of misuse of the ABA’s name/address and forged “receipts” and “approvals” from immigration agencies—all designed to extract thousands of dollars from immigrants in vulnerable situations. American Bar Association

According to the ABA, technological advances have made these scams more sophisticated and harder to detect, especially among noncitizens. The organization has received reports of individuals falsely claiming to be members of the ABA (or “accredited” by it) without any license to practice law, deceiving victims into paying for services that would never be delivered. American Bar Association

Red Flags: How to Spot Scams

The ABA advises that legitimate legal organizations do not make “active offers” of services via WhatsApp or social media, nor do they request payment of legal fees through money-transfer apps. In general, the ABA does not charge the public for legal services, and reputable nonprofit organizations will not request payments through apps. If an offer seems “too good to be true,” be suspicious. American Bar Association

Quick Checklist (save this list):

  • Verify the attorney’s license and standing with the state bar (via the disciplinary authority’s website).
  • Request a written contract with scope, fees, and timelines; keep copies and receipts. American Bar Association
  • Seek professionals and organizations through trusted directories such as the Immigration Advocates Network and AILA Lawyer Search. American Bar Association

“I Was a Victim—Now What?”

The ABA recommends contacting your state Attorney General’s Office, consumer protection agencies, and/or the attorney licensing authority. These agencies can provide guidance on filing complaints, investigations, and possible remedies. American Bar Association

How VisaLex Protects You

  • Licensed and Verified Team — We provide license numbers and jurisdictions upon request.
  • Document Transparency — You review and receive a copy of everything filed on your behalf.
  • Secure Payments — We will never request fees via WhatsApp or personal payment apps.
  • Official Communication — We use corporate channels and your VisaLex portal for sensitive exchanges.

Our commitment: clear guidance, solid evidence, and professional ethics. If anyone claims to “work with the ABA” or to “have a contact inside USCIS” to “speed up” your case, that is a major fraud warning sign. American Bar Association

Need to verify a “professional” or review a contract before making a payment? Contact us—we will be glad to guide you.