The Nigeria Immigration Service has warned the public about scammers and fake websites impersonating its official platforms. The warning, issued on Thursday, also urged applicants to use only authorised portals for all immigration-related services.

The NIS said the warning became necessary to protect Nigerians and foreigners against fraudulent websites designed to exploit applicants seeking passports, visas, and other immigration services.

According to NIS, the official landing page for passport applications is the service’s designated passport portal.

“Separate official platforms exist for visa applications at Nigerian embassies, electronic visa (e-Visa), Temporary Work Permit (TWP) and the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (eCERPAC),” said NIS.

The NIS urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid patronising unauthorised websites or persons claiming to represent the NIS or facilitate its services.

It reiterated that applicants should access immigration services only through official online platforms to avoid falling victim to scammers and compromising their personal information, stating that its mobile application for contactless passport application is available for download on Apple iOS and the Google Play Store.

It said this provided applicants with a secure and convenient alternative for passport processing.

The NIS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of its digital platforms and ensuring seamless service delivery to the public and advised applicants seeking immigration services to verify the authenticity of websites before making payments or submitting personal details.

The agency urged the public to exercise caution at all times and promptly report suspicious websites or fraudulent activities relating to its services to the appropriate authorities, stating that only information disseminated through its official channels should be relied upon.

(NAN)