Avoiding Scams and Scammers
Information Pack for Afghans on the ARAP and ACRS schemes
Protecting Yourself from Scams and Scammers For the Afghan Community in the UK
Scammers often target vulnerable individuals, including refugees and migrants, by pretending to be government officials, banks, or even friends. This information pack explains common scams, warning signs, and how to protect yourself.
Common Scams Targeting Afghans in the UK
Fake Government or Home Office Calls
How it works: Scammers call claiming to be from the Home Office, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), or DWP (Department for Work and Pensions). They say there’s a problem with your visa, benefits, or biometric residence permit (BRP) and demand money or personal details.
Red flags: Threats of deportation if you don’t pay.
Requests for bank details, passwords, or payment via gift cards (e.g., Google Play, iTunes).
2. Fake Job or Housing Scams
How it works: Fraudsters post fake job offers or rental properties online. They ask for an "advance fee" (deposit, visa fee, or background check) but disappear after payment.
Red flags: Job offers with no interview or high pay for little work.
Landlords who won’t show the property before payment.
3. Bank & HMRC (Tax) Scams
How it works: Fake texts/emails claiming your bank account is locked or you owe tax. Links lead to fake websites stealing your login details.
Red flags: Urgent messages like "ACT NOW" or "Your account will be closed." Requests for PINs, passwords, or card details.
4. "Friendship" or Money Transfer Scams
How it works: Someone gains trust (online or in person) then asks for money for an emergency. They may pretend to be a fellow Afghan in need.
Red flags: Requests for Western Union, PayPal, or cash transfers. Stories about medical emergencies, travel costs, or legal fees.
5. WhatsApp Code Scams
How it works: Scammers pretend to be a friend/family member and ask you to share your WhatsApp verification code. With this code, they can hack your account and scam your contacts.
Red flags: Unexpected messages saying: *"I sent you a 6-digit code, please share it with me."* Requests to forward verification codes for any reason.
6. Fake Calls from Afghanistan Asking for Support
How it works: Callers claim to be from Afghanistan (e.g., relatives, charities, or officials) asking for urgent financial help. They may use emotional stories about family emergencies, Taliban threats, or visa processing fees.
Red flags: Pressure to send money immediately via untraceable methods (cash transfer, cryptocurrency).
Refusal to provide verifiable details (e.g., names, addresses, official documents).
7. A message from delivery company
EVRI: We attempted to deliver your parcel today but no one was home. Please reschedule your delivery and pay a £1.45 redelivery fee at http://evri.re-delivery-update.com
Red Flags: the link is suspicious; the link looks like it’s from Evri but includes extra words or a strange domain (e.g. re-delivery-update.com instead of evri.com); Official delivery companies use simple domains (e.g. evri.com), rush you into clicking the link by saying action is required immediately.
How to Protect Yourself
Never share personal details (bank info, BRP, NI number) over the phone or email.
Never share WhatsApp/SMS codes – Legitimate companies never ask for these and never click unverified or untrusted links
Verify calls from Afghanistan – Contact family directly using trusted numbers.
Check job/housing offers – Research the company/landlord before paying anything.
Ignore urgent payment demands – Real agencies never threaten arrest or deportation for unpaid fees.
Use trusted payment methods – Avoid gift cards, cryptocurrency, or cash transfers.
What to Do If You’re Scammed
Stop all contact with the scammer
Report it to:
Action Fraud (UK’s fraud reporting centre): www.actionfraud.police.uk
Your bank (if money was sent).
Seek support from local charities (e.g., Refugee Council, Citizens Advice).
Stay safe and always double-check before sending money or personal details!
USPUK Afghan team is ready to assist you.
For further information, feel free to reach out to us on WhatsApp at +447360861633 or via email at afghanistan@uspuk.org.
*Information last undated on 11.06.2025
**The content in this pack is for informational purposes only. It is not professional advice. Seek guidance from relevant experts or authorities for specific concerns or decisions.