Ezidi Times is issuing this public alert following several worrying incidents that have recently been reported to us.
After the 2014 genocide, many Ezidi families were forced to leave their ancestral lands. Large numbers of people continue to live in extremely difficult conditions, and many families remain separated. As a result, many are trying to reunite with relatives abroad or leave Iraq in search of safety and better opportunities.
Unfortunately, some individuals are exploiting this difficult situation. We have received reports that people are demanding money from Ezidis while claiming they can guarantee visa approvals. In some cases, those involved in these schemes are themselves Ezidis.
These individuals ask for payment for each visa applicant and promise that the visa will certainly be approved. This is misleading and dishonest. No individual who is not an official representative of a government or embassy can guarantee that a visa application will be approved. Visa decisions are made only by the relevant authorities of the country in question. Please remain cautious and do not trust anyone who promises guaranteed results in exchange for money.
To those who take advantage of the hopes and desperation of people who are sometimes giving their last savings: shame on you.
How to spot a scammer
Below are several important points to consider if you encounter individuals offering such services.
- Who is this person?
What position or profession does this individual have? Are they actually qualified to make such promises? - What has this person truly accomplished?
It has become common for scammers to first present themselves as activists or advocates for Ezidi human rights. They may attend events, give speeches, or post videos on social media in order to gain attention and credibility. Later, they use this visibility to build trust and convince people to believe their promises. Anyone can appear at an event or publish a video online, but that does not necessarily mean they have achieved anything meaningful. Always ask a simple question: what has this person actually accomplished? - What organization or political group is this person affiliated with?
Not everyone acts out of goodwill. Some individuals, organizations, or political actors pursue their own interests. Ask yourself why this person would help you and whether their actions may serve another purpose. - Does the person promise results as if they are already guaranteed?
Be cautious if someone claims that payment will solve your problems or guarantees a specific outcome. No serious or honest professional can ever guarantee that a visa application will be approved. Even with proper documentation, there is always the possibility of rejection. Honest professionals explain the risks and the uncertainty involved. Large and absolute promises should raise concern. - What proof or documentation do you receive?
If someone asks you for money, do they provide a receipt or any official documentation confirming the payment? If you are only given a verbal promise, this is a major warning sign. Always request written confirmation that clearly states what you are paying for and what service is being provided. If the service is legitimate, there should be no hesitation in providing proper documentation. - Trust your intuition.
Even if everything appears convincing, pay attention to your instincts. If something feels suspicious or unclear, it is wise to step back and verify the information before proceeding.
Our final message is directed to those who exploit the suffering of others. You may deceive a few individuals who are in desperate circumstances, but the truth will eventually be revealed and you will be held accountable.
As an Ezidi saying reminds us:
Deceit lasts only forty days.
