UNHCR is committed to your safety. Unfortunately, there are individuals and groups who may try to exploit your situation through fake apps, messages, calls, and social media scams that promise assistance or services in exchange for money or personal information.
Common fraud tactics:
- Fake apps and websites: Imitating UNHCR or embassies to steal information or request payments.
- Fraudulent emails and text messages: Pretending to be from UNHCR or another organization, asking for personal data or money.
- Phone scams: Fraudsters may call you, posing as UNHCR staff or claiming to represent other organizations, to trick you and ask for personal information or money.
- Social media scams: False offers of assistance or services in exchange for payment or personal details.
- Messaging scams (Telegram, WhatsApp, etc.): Fraudsters promising resettlement or fast-tracking registration with UNHCR or national authorities in exchange for money or personal information.
Protect yourself and your community:
- Verify the source: always verify any communication you receive. UNHCR will never ask for money for any services or assistance, or ask for personal information through unofficial channels.
- Do not share personal information: never share your personal information, such as your identity document number, bank details, or any passwords, with anyone you do not know or do not trust.
- Report suspicious activity: if you suspect a scam, notify UNHCR and local authorities immediately. Your report can also help protect others.
- Use official channels: Visit the official UNHCR website, the HELP sites, or contact the nearest UNHCR office for verified information.
- Community support: share information about fraud with your community to help keep everyone alert and safe.
If you are a victim of fraud, report the incident to UNHCR or the local authorities!
When reporting, provide as much information as possible, including any communication you received, and the details of individuals involved.
UNHCR cannot investigate fraud committed by people who do not work for UNHCR or its partner organizations, or who are not forcibly displaced persons; such investigations are managed by local authorities.
However, reporting such fraud to UNHCR is still important as it helps provide support in seeking help as well as alert other displaced persons of such fraud.
UNHCR services are free of charge. Be vigilant and protect yourself and others from fraud!
For more information, please visit Reporting Misconduct
