A New Jersey family says it lost more than $10,000 to someone they believed was an immigration attorney before the person stopped responding to their calls.
Attorney Jesús Suday said the family is among dozens of people who have reported being targeted by individuals impersonating members of his law firm. His firm received at least 50 reports between January and September.
Scammers Often Contact Victims Through Social Media
According to Suday, scammers often begin contact through social media before moving conversations to WhatsApp.
He said his firm does not use WhatsApp to communicate with clients and does not accept payments through Zelle, making those potential warning signs.
WhatsApp urged users to pause, question and verify before responding to messages, especially when someone is requesting money. Zelle also advised users to verify the identity of anyone they are sending money to.
Unfamiliar Payment Names Can Be A Warning Sign
Suday said victims should carefully check who is receiving their money.
Scammers may ask clients to send payments to unfamiliar individuals while claiming the person is an attorney’s secretary or bookkeeper.
Another warning sign is someone guaranteeing the outcome of an immigration case. Suday said scammers may promise that they can win a case or secure the release of someone in immigration detention.
How To Verify An Immigration Attorney
People should independently verify anyone claiming to be an attorney or representing a law firm before sending money.
One way to do this is by checking the appropriate state bar website. Consumers can use the attorney’s official contact information listed by the bar to contact the lawyer or law firm directly.
This can help prevent people from communicating with scammers who are impersonating legitimate attorneys.
