Alarming new tactics exposed — the phone scam that could cost you your freedom.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) works day and night to carry out the largest deportation operation in history. In doing so, its agents employ different tricks and tactics to make arrests in immigrant communities. One of the most concerning strategies is a phone scam.

Fake Calls: ICE’s Tactic for Arresting Immigrants

The Immigrant Defense Project (IDP)—which has been fighting against mass criminalization and deportation of migrants in the U.S. for over 20 years—shared on social media how federal immigration agents use phone calls to detain people.

During the first contact, the agents pretend to be local or federal police officers instead of identifying themselves as immigration officers. They call with fake excuses like having found a lost ID or accusing the person of being a suspect in a crime. The goal is to get information or set up an in-person meeting.

According to the organization, these calls aim to identify undocumented immigrants, locate them, or arrange face-to-face encounters.

ICE Agents Collaborate with Federal Agencies Like the FBI and DHS to Expand Their Operations

Misleading Phrases Used by ICE Agents Over the Phone:

“We found a lost ID.”
“We’re investigating a crime, and you’re a suspect.”

The goal is to set up a face-to-face meeting.

Misleading Phrases Used by ICE Agents In Person:

“We’re conducting an investigation and need to ask a few questions.”
“Your child is a victim of identity theft; we need to speak with them.”
“Have you seen this suspect?” (They show a photo.)

The goal is to get the person to open the door or step outside so they can make an arrest.

ICE Tricks to Enter Your Home

Many ICE agents use manipulative tactics during home raids to get people to open their doors. According to an IDP report, officers rely on certain strategies to deceive migrant families and gain access to their homes:

They do not identify themselves as immigration officers and may wear local or federal law enforcement uniforms to cause confusion.
They pose as detectives or prosecutors investigating a crime, claiming a suspect is inside the home.
Sometimes they report an identity theft, which alarms residents and makes them more likely to cooperate.
Once the person lets them in or steps outside, the arrest is made.

What Are Your Rights if ICE Shows Up at Your Home?

IDP also provides information about the rights every individual has if visited by ICE agents:

Right to remain silent: You can choose not to speak unless in the presence of a lawyer.
Right to request a lawyer: While you’re allowed to ask for legal counsel, the state is not obligated to provide one.
Don’t sign anything: It’s crucial not to sign any documents, as they may negatively affect your case.
Don’t open the door: If an agent asks to enter, you can deny access unless they present a warrant signed by an immigration judge. You have the right to ask to verify the warrant.