Immigration Fraud Trends - Reports indicate a rise in immigration-related scams, with a 27% increase in New York City last year [5] - Scammers impersonate attorneys or federal agents, targeting immigrants seeking legal services [3][6] - Victims are losing hundreds or even thousands of dollars to these scams [3] Financial Impact on Victims - Scammers request advances ranging from $600 to $2,000 for immigration paperwork assistance [4] - Victims often receive no legal services or support after paying the advance [2][4] Legal and Regulatory Responses - New York City has doubled the penalties for fake immigration legal services, increasing fines from $3,900 to $20,000 for repeat offenders [5] - The American Bar Association has issued an alert warning of an increase in individuals impersonating lawyers [6] Scope of the Problem - Reports of fraudulent immigration lawyers and federal agents have surfaced in at least 30 states across the country [6] - New York City Council members receive weekly complaints from constituents alleging they were scammed [3]