US embassy warns vs fake messages on visas

MANILA, Philippines — The United States embassy is warning against fraudulent emails and messages being sent to US visa applicants to trick them into sending money.

“Applicants must follow the payment steps on our website only. Other sources are not valid or legitimate. We urge individuals to be vigilant against visa fraud,” the embassy said in a statement yesterday.

The embassy said it will never directly communicate with applicants about a specific case from any other email address, social media or other messaging platforms such as Facebook, Viber or WhatsApp.

“The embassy never requests a visa payment via email, phone, social media or messaging application,” it said.

The embassy encouraged applicants to use the information on its official website at ph.usembassy.gov/visas.

If an applicant suspects being misled, a report may be sent to email address [email protected].