Immigration 'Deportation' Threat Call Scam Examples
Callers impersonating immigration or border enforcement claim your visa has expired or your documentation is fraudulent and threaten immediate deportation or arrest unless you pay a fine by wire transfer or gift card.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
This is [immigration authority]. Your visa has been flagged as fraudulent. You will be detained unless you pay a compliance bond of [amount] within two hours. Do not contact an attorney — this is a federal matter.
An arrest warrant has been issued in your name for immigration violations. To suspend it, you must purchase [gift card brand] vouchers for [amount] and read us the codes over the phone.
Your right to remain in this country has been revoked. A deportation order has been filed. To contest it you must pay [amount] in processing fees immediately by wire transfer.
What the scammer wants
To exploit fear of deportation or arrest to force rapid payment by untraceable methods such as gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
Red flags in the message
- Unsolicited call threatening arrest or deportation
- Demand for payment by gift card or wire transfer to stop a legal action
- Instruction not to tell family or consult a lawyer
- Caller ID showing a government agency number (easily spoofed)
- Extreme urgency and threats of immediate consequences
A safe response
Hang up immediately. Real immigration authorities communicate in writing first and never demand payment by gift card. Contact a licensed immigration attorney or call your embassy or consulate.
What not to send
- Gift card codes
- Wire transfer payment
- Passport or visa copies
- Personal identification numbers
What to do if you already replied
- If you paid, contact your bank or gift card issuer immediately to attempt a reversal
- Report to your national anti-fraud authority and immigration enforcement body
- Consult a licensed immigration attorney about your actual status
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot the full message or call details
- Note the sender number, email, or profile
- Save any links (without clicking) and payment details
- Record dates and times