ABA Launches Site To Fight ‘Notario’ Fraud

In an effort to fight “Notario” fraud, the American Bar Association Commission on Immigration has launched a Web site called fightnotariofraud.com where victims and others who come across them can find information and help. “Notario” fraud — pretending to be a foreign-language ‘Notary’ or ‘immigration consultant’ to scam immigrants seeking legal help — is a crime.

Phony Notarios steal the hard-earned money of their victims, leaving them with serious immigration problems, but misuse of the title “Notary Public” also hurts the reputation of legitimate Notaries. If Notaries or other legal professionals spot a possible fraudulent Notario service, the ABA Commission recommends that they contact either their local district attorney or the state attorney general’s office. Usually these state officials have a consumer protection section that can investigate Notario-related activities.