State law enforcement officials warned Californians on Tuesday in new reports of US immigrants, customs enforcement officers and other individuals impersonating immigration fraud.
In recent months, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has published methods to help California immigrants better understand their rights and protections under the law and to help law enforcement, prosecutors and public agencies comply with state law.
Bonta warned that fraudsters and other bad actors would “try to exploit the fear and uncertainty created by the Trump administration’s racist rhetoric and destructive immigration policies.” He said he wanted to encourage everyone to know their rights under the law and take steps to protect themselves from fraud.
A large set of guidance available in multiple languages can be accessed here.
“We are receiving reports of individuals trying to exploit the fear and uncertainty created by President Trump’s inhumane deportation policy,” Bonta said in a statement.
“Let’s be clear. You are accountable if you are trying to use the fraud or the California immigrant community. My office continues to ensure that our laws are fully enforced and that the rights of California immigrants are respected and protected.
According to the AG, if you are approached by an individual who claims to be an immigration officer, know your rights and avoid fraud.
To protect yourself from fraud, Bonta advises.
Identify it. Immigration authorities must carry certain badges and credentials. Do not provide money or personal information to anyone who sends calls, texts or emails who claim they have issues with immigration issues. Immigration officers do not seek money or financial information. Immigration officials usually do not ask immigrants to warn them of being detained or arrested. Don’t sign anything until you understand what you’re signing. Please do not agree to anything in writing and not in the language you understand. Do not hire immigration consultants or notaries. Only lawyers, certified representatives, and recognized organizations can provide legal advice or represent you in immigration courts. Immigration Consultant – Cannot be called an immigration expert, notary, notary, or paralegal. Do not sign immigration forms that contain incorrect information or blank spaces. Before signing an immigration form, make sure the form is complete and accurate. Don’t convince anyone to lie down on the form or sign a blank form. Please note the “Dot Com” or “Dot Net” website. Information about these websites may not be reliable. Instead, you will access the information from the “DOT Gov” site. These belong to the government. And then go to a legal legal aid organization for free legal assistance. Many nonprofits provide free immigration assistance to low-income individuals, including those found through the following resources: Click here to find a legal aid organization near you.
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