Dear Friend,

I was recently contacted by a Fort Worth constituent about a disturbing new telephone scam and I wanted to make you aware of it. The scammers have targeted residents in North Texas, including those in my district.

The scammers are targeting U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) applicants. The scammer uses a “spoofing” technique that displays an inaccurate USCIS phone number on your Caller ID. When the fake USCIS official calls, they have been known to ask for personal information, immigration status, and then demand payment to correct the records under threat of deportation. The scammers have encouraged the recipient to make an electronic funds transfer or to purchase a money order or voucher.

USCIS is aware that this fraudulent activity is taking place and advises anyone receiving this type of phone call to hang up immediately. Do not disclose any personal or payment information because the scammers are attempting to gain access to credit card information. USCIS will never ask for any form of payment or personal information over the phone.

If you think you have been a victim of this telephone scam USCIS recommends reporting the incident immediately to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/. You can also contact the FTC Dallas Regional office at 1-877-382-4357 for assistance.

These types of scams, along with continued company data breaches, have become more sophisticated. It’s critical that everyone remains vigilant against these attempts to steal your identity and personal information.  

Sincerely,
Kay Granger