TikTok deactivates fraudulent immigration lawyer account after press request
TikTok removed a fraudulent immigration‑lawyer account after a press request, with the deactivation occurring around 15 September. The action targets scammers who have been charging migrants thousands of dollars for bogus legal services.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- TikTok deactivated a fake immigration‑lawyer account
- Timing
- Around 15 September following a press request
- Who is affected
- Migrants and prospective clients who encountered the fake account
The details
- Announced by
- TikTok spokesperson
- Takes effect
- around the 15 September
- Previous rule
- The account remained active despite multiple reports from the lawyer and users, allowing scammers to continue soliciting payments.
- New rule
- TikTok now removes accounts that impersonate legal professionals and attempt to defraud users, as demonstrated by this deactivation.
Decision and Rationale
TikTok said it adopts a comprehensive approach to combat scams on its platform. The spokesperson emphasized that accounts that mislead users, impersonate professionals, or attempt fraud are not permitted.
- The fake account @attorneysaleemlawfirm used the lawyer’s image and videos to attract followers.
- It demanded $300 for a consultation via a Zelle account linked to a false identity.
Timeline of Events
Immigration lawyer Mohammad Saleem first reported the impersonation in August 2024. The fraudulent account grew to 90,000 followers by May 2025. After a prolonged period of inactivity from TikTok, Documented submitted a press request, prompting the platform to act in mid‑September.
- August 2024 – Initial report to TikTok.
- May 2025 – Account reaches 90,000 followers.
- September 2026 – TikTok deactivates the account.
Implications for Users
The removal reduces the immediate risk of migrants paying for nonexistent legal services through the platform. However, the investigation found dozens of other impersonating accounts still active, indicating ongoing vulnerability.
- Documented identified 21 accounts using Saleem’s name or likeness; 16 remain active.
- Similar scams have been reported against other immigration‑lawyer influencers.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing travel plans are not directly affected by the account removal.
- Migrants should verify any legal advice received on TikTok with official sources before acting.
Cost and documents
- No new fees are introduced by TikTok.
- Users should be cautious of payment requests via Cash App, Zelle, or WhatsApp from unverified accounts.
What you need to do
- Check that any immigration lawyer contacted on TikTok has a verified professional profile.
- Report any suspicious accounts to TikTok using the in‑app reporting tool.
Who this affects
-
Migrants seeking legal advice on TikTok
They have been targeted by fake lawyer accounts that charge for nonexistent services.
What to do Verify the authenticity of any legal professional before paying or sharing personal information.
-
Immigration lawyers with a TikTok presence
Their images and content are being copied by scammers to lure victims.
What to do Monitor the platform for impersonating accounts and report them promptly.
-
TikTok users exposed to immigration‑related scams
Scammers use the platform’s algorithm to amplify fraudulent content.
What to do Use TikTok’s reporting features to flag impersonation and fraud.
Frequently asked questions
When did TikTok remove the fake immigration lawyer account?
TikTok deactivated the account around 15 September after a press request, ending its activity on the platform.
How many followers did the fake account have before removal?
The impersonating account @attorneysaleemlawfirm grew to about 90,000 followers by May 2025.
What payment methods did the scammers request?
The fraudsters asked for $300 via a Zelle account linked to a false identity and also used Cash App and WhatsApp for other scams.
Are other fake immigration lawyer accounts still active on TikTok?
Documented found 21 accounts using the lawyer’s name or likeness, with 16 of them still active at the time of reporting.
What should I do if I encounter a suspicious immigration lawyer on TikTok?
Report the account through TikTok’s in‑app tools, avoid sending money, and verify the lawyer’s credentials through official channels before proceeding.
