Task Force Formed To Crack Down On Immigration Scammers

Fraudsters beware: a new task force launched yesterday to put phony lawyers who prey on vulnerable immigrants behind bars.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman and Mayor Bill de Blasio are teaming up on the initiative, dedicating enforcement resources to root out “immigrant service provider fraud,” among other scams targeting immigrants.

The joint task force’s priority will be to put out of business scam artists who claim to be immigration lawyers or specialists, falsely promising to fast-track applications for hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Enforcement teams will work closely with community and advocacy groups to identify and eliminate phony services quickly, before the fraudsters pack up show and move, the mayor and attorney general said.

The administration is also encouraging victims and others to get in touch if they suspect a scam, noting that they will have a “no questions asked” policy in regards to immigration status. The city will kick off a public awareness campaign in immigrant communities to get the word out.

To report complaints regarding immigration services, contact the Attorney General’s Immigration Services Fraud Unit Hotline at (866) 390-2992 or Civil.Rights@ag.ny.gov.

The new task force comes after the passage of the state’s Immigration Assistance Service Enforcement Act, which implements harsher penalties against fraudsters and creates protection for undocumented immigrants who come forward with complaints.

“Together we are sending a powerful message that New York has zero tolerance for anyone who seeks to prey on immigrants and their families,” said Schneiderman in a press release. “Through this strategic partnership, we will hold accountable those who take advantage of vulnerable immigrants and help make the goals of the president’s action a reality for thousands of New Yorkers.”