Stay safe on NRIinUSA
Scams targeting newcomers are common — fake landlords, fake job referrals, immigration fraud, and marketplace tricks. Learn the warning signs, verify before you trust, and report anything suspicious.
Never send money to someone you have not verified. NRIinUSA will never request payments through direct messages.
Safety Education Hub
Housing Safety
- •Avoid rental scams — if a deal looks too cheap, it usually is
- •Never send deposits before verifying the landlord and the unit
- •Verify landlord identity (ID + proof of ownership/management)
- •Tour in person or do a live video walkthrough before paying
- •Use traceable, reversible payment methods — never wire or gift cards
Roommate Safety
- •Verify the person's university or employer before committing
- •Meet in person (or video call) before moving in
- •Ask for references from previous roommates
- •Verify social profiles (LinkedIn / Instagram) match the person
- •Sign a simple roommate agreement covering rent and utilities
Job & Referral Safety
- •Beware fake recruiters — real ones never ask for payment
- •No legitimate employer guarantees H-1B sponsorship for a fee
- •Avoid 'resume marketing' scams that charge to apply on your behalf
- •Verify the company domain on the recruiter's email address
- •Never pay for a referral or a job offer
Immigration Safety
- •USCIS never calls/texts demanding payment or threatening arrest
- •Use only licensed attorneys or accredited representatives
- •Be skeptical of anyone 'guaranteeing' an H-1B selection or green card
- •Government impersonation scams spoof real numbers — verify on uscis.gov
- •Never share your A-number, SSN, or passport over unsolicited contact
Marketplace Safety
- •Prefer cash or in-app payment on pickup; avoid advance payment
- •Meet in public, well-lit places (many police stations have safe zones)
- •Never wire money or pay with gift cards for an item you haven't seen
- •Watch for classic 'overpay and refund' and shipping-only scams
- •Inspect the item before paying; trust your instincts and walk away
Report a scam
Reports are reviewed by our trust & safety team. Include as much detail as you can.
Trust Score (0–100)
Every member has a trust score built from verifications, reviews, and successful transactions. Higher scores mean safer interactions.
Verified badges
Look for these badges before you transact.
Phone Verified
Confirmed a working phone via OTP
University Verified
Verified a .edu email or enrollment
Employer Verified
Confirmed current employer
LinkedIn Connected
Linked a real LinkedIn profile
Trusted Roommate
Strong roommate reviews + verifications
Trusted Landlord
Verified ownership + positive reviews
Community Contributor
Consistently helpful in the community
NRIinUSA Verified
Full identity verification complete