A Pakistani national, Faheem Akram, has been indicted in the United States over an alleged $126 million counterfeit postage fraud scheme targeting the US Postal Service.
According to the US Department of Justice, Akram allegedly operated LabelsBank.com, a website that sold counterfeit USPS postage labels at significantly reduced prices.
US authorities allege that the website sold more than 5.1 million counterfeit postage labels, with over 5,200 people reportedly purchasing the labels.
The alleged scheme resulted in losses of more than $126 million to the US Postal Service, according to prosecutors.
Authorities have since seized the website and its domain as part of the investigation.
Akram faces multiple federal charges, including conspiracy, counterfeit postage offences and wire fraud. The charges are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, Akram could face substantial prison sentences under US federal law.
Earlier, the United States Department of State launched an online portal to help members of the public report suspected visa scams, fraud and misuse of US visas.
According to the department, “Many of the tens of thousands of visa fraudsters the Department has identified and held accountable during President Trump’s second term were discovered thanks to tips provided by upstanding and concerned members of the public. This new online tool provides a convenient and reliable way for the public to submit crucial information for prompt review and action.”
“Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Rubio, the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs is conducting rigorous fraud detection and prevention activities to thwart attempts to travel to the United States through fraudulent means or for illegal purposes”, the department added.
It is pertinent to mention that visa fraud can include the use of falsified documents or travel plans, brokers arranging sham marriages, shell companies, fabricated job offers, engaging in or facilitating birth tourism, and more. These schemes do not just defraud the US government – visa fraud hurts American communities, undermines the US economy and American workers, and jeopardises US national security and public safety.
To file a complaint, you can visit the portal.
Recently, the United States announced a visa bond initiative that allows consular officers to require certain citizens from 50 countries who apply for visitor visas to pay a bond of up to $20,000 before their visas can be issued.
The programme entered into effect on August 1st and is available for B-1 business visas and B-2 tourist visas.
