The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a fresh warning to Nigerians and foreign nationals, urging them to stay away from fake immigration websites and fraudsters posing as officials to steal money and personal information from unsuspecting applicants.
The warning was announced on Thursday through the agency’s official social media platforms in Abuja, as the NIS expressed concern over the growing number of fraudulent websites designed to deceive people applying for passports, visas and other immigration services.
According to the Service, applicants should only use its officially approved online platforms when applying for immigration services, stressing that dealing with unauthorised websites or individuals could expose them to scams and identity theft.
The NIS explained that there are dedicated official portals for different services, including passport applications, visa applications through Nigerian embassies, electronic visas (e-Visa), Temporary Work Permits (TWP) and the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (eCERPAC).
The agency urged members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid anyone claiming to offer special access or faster immigration services outside its authorised channels.
The Service also encouraged applicants to verify the authenticity of any immigration website before making payments or submitting personal information.
In addition, the NIS reminded the public that its Mobile Application for Contactless Passport Application is available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, providing a secure and convenient option for passport processing.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of its digital platforms and ensuring that Nigerians continue to enjoy safe, transparent and efficient immigration services.
It further advised applicants to rely only on information released through the Service’s official communication channels and to promptly report suspicious websites or fraudulent activities linked to immigration services to the appropriate authorities.
Source: NAN.
