Audio Transcript

Mollie Halpern: The FBI warns of two similar fraud schemes targeting U.S. relatives of undocumented child immigrants who recently crossed the southern border.

Michelle Lee: There’s a great deal of harm that is being caused by this fraud scheme.

Halpern: I’m Mollie Halpern of the Bureau and this is FBI, This Week. Scammers are calling victims demanding between $300 and $6,000 to cover fake travel and processing costs in order to reunite them with their children.

Lee: These are particularly vulnerable victims. In some cases we know that these are funds that the families would otherwise use for food and shelter and basic necessities.

Halpern: That was Special Agent Michelle Lee who says victims have been identified in at least a dozen states. The FBI and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General are investigating. Lee says to be wary of solicitors…

Lee: Ensure that the payment they’re requesting has been authorized and that it’s a legitimate organization.

Halpern: If you think you’ve been scammed call your local FBI office.

Lee: With your help we may be able to put an end to these fraud schemes.

Halpern: For more ways to protect yourself visit www.fbi.gov