Torrez warns New Mexicans about online immigration attorney scams

Attorney general says scammers are posing as lawyers on social media, urging residents to verify credentials and avoid fraud.

Organ Mountain News report

ALBUQUERQUE - Attorney General Raúl Torrez and the State Bar of New Mexico are warning residents about an increase in online scammers posing as immigration attorneys.

The scammers often initiate contact through social media and sometimes use the names and license numbers of real attorneys to appear legitimate. Authorities say some victims have not only lost money, but also received false legal advice that led to missed immigration hearings and potential deportation.

“These scammers go to great lengths to deceive people, targeting immigrant communities seeking legal help,” Torrez said. “They use sophisticated schemes to gain trust and steal money. My office will not tolerate those who prey on people in need, and we are working closely with the State Bar to protect New Mexicans and raise awareness of these scams.”

Red flags for fraud

Officials outlined several signs of fraudulent immigration attorneys:

• Direct contact via social media offering to take your case
• Requests for payment through gift cards, bitcoin, Venmo or Zelle
• Fees that seem “too good to be true”
• Imposter websites — federal sites should end in “.gov”

In New Mexico, it is against the Rules of Professional Conduct for attorneys to solicit clients directly with paid services.

What to do if contacted

The Attorney General’s Office advises residents:

• Don’t send money or personal information if you feel pressured
• Walk away from anyone threatening deportation to rush payment
• Verify an attorney’s legitimacy through the State Bar of New Mexico at 505-797-6000
• Contact an attorney’s office directly using information from their official website

Torrez noted that scammers may use the real name and license number of legitimate attorneys, so residents should confirm directly with the attorney’s office.

The New Mexico Department of Justice has updated its Scam Prevention and Identity Theft webpage with fact sheets in English and Spanish and additional resources: https://nmdoj.gov/get-help/scam-prevention-and-identity-theft/

Residents can also call the NMDOJ at 505-490-4060 for assistance.