Immigration Legal Services Scam Alert

The Kentucky Bar Association is warning the public about a serious and growing scam targeting people who are seeking immigration legal help.

WHAT IS HAPPENING

Scammers are pretending to be real, licensed attorneys, the American Bar Association (ABA), and legitimate legal aid organizations. They use fake documents, false credentials, and official-looking government seals to trick people into paying for legal services that are never provided.

These scammers are most active on WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, and other social media platforms. They may contact you first rather than you reaching out to them. They often target people who face language barriers, have limited access to legal information, or are concerned about their immigration status.

Beyond losing money, victims of this scam have faced serious immigration consequences—including deportation orders—because scammers filed fraudulent paperwork or caused them to miss important deadlines.

WARNING SIGNS

• Someone contacts you on social media or through WhatsApp offering immigration legal help.
• They claim to work for the ABA or a well-known legal organization.
• They pressure you to pay fees quickly or share personal information.
• Documents they provide have government seals (such as USCIS or DHS) but were sent informally.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

• Verify any attorney's license before paying money or sharing personal information. You can look up licensed Kentucky attorneys for free using the KBA’s “Find a Lawyer” service. 
• Contact the attorney directly using contact information you find independently, not information provided by the person who contacted you.
• Never pay for immigration legal services based solely on a social media message or unsolicited contact.
• The KBA does not provide direct legal representation to individuals. If someone claims to represent the KBA in your immigration case, it is a scam.

HOW TO REPORT

If you believe you have been a victim of this scam or have encountered suspicious activity, please report it to:

• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC): ReportFraud.ftc.gov
• The EOIR Fraud and Abuse Prevention Program: eoir.fraud.program@usdoj.gov or 877-388-3840
• The Kentucky Bar Association: (502) 564-3795

You have rights, and help is available. If you need immigration legal assistance, contact the KBA at (502) 564-3795, and we can help you find a legitimate, licensed attorney.

Kentucky Bar Association
514 W. Main St.
Frankfort, KY 40601
(502) 564-3795