A 23-year-old Kherson woman who is in Poland became the victim of a fraudulent scheme. The girl intended to go to the USA and published an ad on social networks about finding help with document processing. Her ad was responded to by a person who introduced himself as an agent who allegedly deals with visa processing and accompanying documentation. Abusing the girl's trust, the scammer took possession of a significant amount – 74,682 hryvnias. After receiving the money, the relationship with the pseudo-agent was broken off, and the victim never received the promised services, – The Kherson Region Police reports.
The police have already initiated criminal proceedings, but it will be difficult to return the money.
This situation is a typical example of fraud that anyone looking for services online can encounter. How to avoid such cases? Here are some tips:
- Check information about agents or companies Before cooperating with anyone, be sure to check reviews, official website, licenses and contact details. It is also worth paying attention to the presence of real offices or representative offices. If the information looks unconvincing or questionable, it is better to refuse cooperation.
- Do not trust unverified ads Social networks often become a platform for scammers. Ads may look professional, but this does not guarantee their authenticity. Ask a potential agent for documents confirming his qualifications and authority.
- Do not transfer money in advance Never send large sums of money in advance, especially if you are not sure of the person's honesty. It is better to discuss the possibility of partial payment after receiving the service.
- Use official channels for document processing To apply for a visa or other documents, contact official bodies or trusted agencies. This significantly reduces the risk of falling for scammers.
- Do not rush into making decisions Scammers often pressure their victims into making decisions quickly. Avoid these situations: carefully weigh all options before concluding a deal or transferring funds.
- Keep all records of communication Maintaining correspondence, saving receipts, and other evidence can help in the event of disputes or the initiation of criminal proceedings.
- Consult lawyers If you have any doubts about the legality of a potential agent's actions, it is best to seek legal advice. A specialist will help assess the risks and provide legal support.
Fraud in the field of migration services is becoming increasingly common, especially among citizens who are abroad. Prudence, attentiveness and skepticism are the main principles that will help protect against fraud and financial losses.