A B1/B2 visa applicant recently lost ₹20,000 in a Telegram-based visa scheduling scam. The person had been waiting for a US visa appointment for months before falling victim to a fraudulent agent who promised an earlier slot.
How the Telegram Scam Began
Frustrated with the long wait for a September 2026 appointment date for their DS-160, the applicant contacted an agent through a Telegram group. The agent claimed to have access to faster appointment slots and demanded payment in exchange.
False Promises and Fake Dates
The agent showed screenshots of fake November 2025 appointment dates to gain the applicant’s trust. The applicant initially transferred ₹10,000 via PayPal. However, since India doesn’t allow international service payments through PayPal, they were asked to send another ₹10,000 through UPI.
Scam Revealed After Payment
Only after the second transaction did the applicant regain access to their account. To their shock, the original visa appointment dates remained unchanged for 2026. The scammer had vanished, leaving the applicant with a financial loss and emotional distress.
Wider Warnings and Reactions
Other applicants on similar forums expressed concern and sympathy but criticised the lack of caution. They urged visa seekers to avoid Telegram and other unverified online agents. Experts say such scams thrive because of the desperation to secure early visa slots.
Experts Call for Stricter Action
Immigration experts have warned that without stronger government oversight, online visa frauds will continue. They stress the need for official awareness campaigns and verification systems to protect applicants from such digital traps.
