US Embassy Cancels 2,000 Fraudulent Visa Appointments in India — Crackdown on Bots and Fixers
The US Embassy in India has taken firm action against visa fraud, canceling over 2,000 visa appointments booked using bots. Officials detected significant violations in the appointment system by malicious actors, leading to the immediate suspension of the associated accounts.
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy on visa fraud, the embassy issued a strong warning to agents and fixers engaging in unlawful practices.
“Consular Team India is canceling about 2,000 visa appointments made by bots. We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers that violate our scheduling policies,” the US Embassy in India announced on X (formerly Twitter).
Why Were the Appointments Canceled?
The embassy’s investigation revealed fraudulent activities where bots manipulated the visa scheduling system. As a result, those accounts lost their scheduling privileges indefinitely.
In an official statement, the embassy emphasized:
“Consular Team India identified bad actors who made about 2,000 visa appointments that violated our scheduling policies. Effective immediately, we are canceling these appointments and suspending the associated accounts’ scheduling privileges.”
Visa Agents and Fixers Exploit Applicants
Many applicants, desperate to secure early visa interview dates, often resort to third-party agents. Reports suggest that paying ₹30,000 to ₹35,000 can get applicants a visa slot within a month, despite the regular wait time for a B1/B2 visa being over six months.
A frustrated applicant shared with The Times of India:
“We tried to get a visa interview date on our own for our child, who had to join an American university last autumn, but nothing was available within the required timeframe. We paid an agent ₹30,000 and got the appointment on time.”
US Embassy’s Warning to Visa Applicants
The embassy strongly advises applicants to avoid using unauthorized agents. Engaging in fraudulent activities could lead to severe consequences, including visa refusals and permanent ineligibility for a US visa.
To stay updated and ensure a hassle-free visa application process, applicants are encouraged to use only the official US Embassy website for visa appointments.
Stay informed about the latest updates on US visa policies, fraud prevention measures, and visa appointment guidelines. For reliable information, visit the official US Embassy portal.