State law enforcement officials on Wednesday warned of immigration scams that include individuals impersonating U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement officers.
In recent months, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued ways to help California immigrants better understand their legal rights and protections and assist law enforcement, prosecutors and public institutions in complying with state law.
“We have received reports of individuals looking to take advantage of the fear and uncertainty created by President Trump’s inhumane mass deportation policies,” Bonta said in a statement.“Let me be clear: If you seek to scam or otherwise take advantage of California’s immigrant communities, you will be held accountable. My office will continue to ensure our laws are fully enforced and the rights of California’s immigrants are respected and protected. I encourage anyone who is the witness to or victim of an immigration scam to report it.”
The AG said state residents should be aware that it is unlawful to pose as a federal officer and urged everyone to know their rights under the law and protect themselves from scammers.
The full set of guidance available in several languages is online at oag.ca.gov/immigrant/resources. Officials offered these general guidelines:
- Ask for identification — immigration authorities should carry badges and identifying credentials;
- “Do not give money or personal information to anyone who calls, texts or emails you claiming that there is a problem with your immigration matter,” Bonta’s office adivised. Immigration officers will not ask for money or financial information and typically will not call to warn immigrants that they are going to be detained or arrested;
- Don’t sign any documents until you understand what you are signing. Do not agree to anything that is not in writing and in a language you understand;
- Don’t hire an immigration consultant or notary. Only lawyers, accredited representatives and officially recognized organizations can provide legal advice or representation in immigration court. Immigration consultants, often called “immigration experts, notarios, notaries public, or paralegals,” cannot represent clients in court.
- Do not sign immigration forms that have incorrect information or blank spaces. “Before you sign any immigration forms, be sure that the forms are fully and accurately filled out,” officials said. “Don’t let anyone convince you to lie on a form or sign a blank form”;
- Be cautious about “dot com” or “dot net” websites. Information on such sites may not be trustworthy. Use “dot gov” sites that are government-affiliated; and
- Connect with a legitimate legal aid organization for free legal assistance. Many nonprofit organizations provide free immigration help to individuals with low incomes. To find a legal aid organization, visit lawhelpca.org.
To report scams or rights violations to the California Department of Justice, email immigration@doj.ca.gov. To report discrimination, harassment or retaliation to the California Civil Rights Department, visit calcivilrights.ca.gov/complaintprocess.
