Staying safe

Scammers target immigrant families and their relatives. These are the warning signs we see most, and where to get real help.

"Notarios" and "immigration consultants"In the U.S. a notary public is not a lawyer. In New York only licensed attorneys and DOJ-accredited representatives may give immigration legal advice. Nobody can guarantee papers, a visa or a green card. USCIS forms are free to download.

Rental deposit scamsNever pay a deposit or "holding fee" for a place you haven't seen in person, and never pay by gift card, crypto, Zelle to a stranger or wire transfer. If the price looks too good, it is.

Fake jobsA real employer never charges you for training, a uniform, a background check or "processing". Be careful with job offers that start on WhatsApp.

Your ID numbersNever post or message your SSN, ITIN, A-number or passport number. USA Club removes them automatically when it can.

Check a lawyerSearch the New York attorney directory or the DOJ roster of accredited representatives.

Check a real estate agentLook up any New York license on the Department of State license search.

Report fraudReport scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov (help in many languages), and to the New York Attorney General. On USA Club, use the Report link on any post, reply, profile or message.

How USA Club helpsPosts and messages that look like these scams from new accounts are held for review before anyone sees them. Pro listings are reviewed before they go live. Three reports hide anything until staff check it.