Office of
Immigrant Assistance
Immigrant Assistance Consumer Alert
The Office of the Attorney General warns Californians to watch out for scam artists seeking to take advantage of immigrants.
Texto Español 
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Consumers should not pay fees or fines to any business, organization or person claiming they can help apply for or receive benefits for a temporary worker program.
While Congress has been debating legislation, no temporary worker program exists currently for undocumented immigrants in the United States. Since the program does not exist, there are no benefits available presently.
Consumers can report suspected scam artists by contacting the Attorney General’s Public Inquiry Unit. Consumer complaints may be filed:
- On-line using the complaint form
- Toll-free in California 1-800-952-5225
- or (916) 322-3360.
Although often victimized, many immigrants are reluctant to seek assistance from law enforcement agencies, such as the local police, sheriff or even the California Department of Justice. The Office of Immigrant Assistance in the Civil Rights Section of the California Department of Justice was established to help protect the rights of these California consumers and working families.
The new office will provide education and outreach services to immigrant communities. The office also will be able to direct complaints to appropriate law enforcement agencies and help immigrant communities to understand and use the legal system to seek redress.
"In America, nearly every family started out as immigrants," the Attorney General said. "New immigrants have always been among the hardest working members of society and they continue to make enormous contributions to California in terms of energy, optimism and productivity. No matter when we entered this country, we all deserve justice. By creating this Office of Immigrant Assistance, I want to ensure that Californians who happen to be new immigrants have the benefit of protection under our laws and that there is truly 'justice for all' in California."
The Office of the Attorney General has brought legal action against dozens of "immigration consultants" for taking advantage of immigrant clients by illegally portraying themselves as lawyers, engaging in false advertising and violating state laws regulating immigration consultants.
