California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a warning to residents about an increase in reports of individuals impersonating U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers and other immigration-related scams. The Attorney General emphasized the importance of understanding one's rights and protections under the law, especially in light of attempts by scammers to exploit fear and uncertainty.
Attorney General Bonta stated, "We have received reports of individuals looking to take advantage of the fear and uncertainty created by President Trump’s inhumane mass deportation policies." He assured that those who attempt to scam or exploit California's immigrant communities will be held accountable. Bonta urged anyone witnessing or falling victim to such scams to report them.
To protect against these scams, Californians are advised to ask for identification from anyone claiming to be an immigration officer, avoid giving money or personal information over phone calls, texts, or emails, and refrain from signing documents they do not fully understand. Additionally, it is recommended not to hire immigration consultants who are not legally authorized to provide advice or representation in immigration matters.
The Attorney General highlighted that impersonating a federal officer is a crime under 18 USC § 912, while impersonating a police officer is a misdemeanor under California Penal Code § 538d. Victims of scams or those with information about imposters should report incidents to local law enforcement or the California Department of Justice at immigration@doj.ca.gov. Discrimination complaints can be filed with the California Civil Rights Department via calcivilrights.ca.gov/complaintprocess/.
The full guidance on protecting oneself from these scams is available at oag.ca.gov/immigrant/resources.