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Adoption Scams

There are many scams that take advantage of people and cause hardships and loss, but perhaps the most personally agonizing example is the adoption scam. It can leave hopeful parents-to-be crushed aside from cheating them out of their money.

Two variations of the scam

1. Couples and women who hope to be mothers are promised a baby by a con artist that claims to have connections to one or more pregnant women who plan to give their children up for adoption. These unborn babies are often said to be in other countries, so the mothers-to-be can not be contacted.

2. Pictures of young children are offered as proof of young ones just waiting to be taken in by a caring family.

In either case, money is usually requested to help with the birth, take care of the newborns or for a variety of valid reasons. The problem with both examples is that they are completely untrue. The expectant mothers are fictitious and the pictures are of children who are not up for adoption. Victims are led to believe they are about to adopt a child only to find out they have been scammed.

Results of being scammed

For many people who endure an adoption scam, the emotional pain is the worst part. Expectations will run high and people often make major changes in their lives if they believe they are going to have a child. They may spend time and money child proofing their entire home, redecorate a room for the child and even leave their jobs to become full time parents.

Investigate an adoption agency

Before working with any adoption agency, do some research to make sure they are a valid company that is officially licensed. Check their credentials and find out how long they have been in business. Contact the Better Business Bureau to ask if the agency has any ongoing complaints. Ask for references and follow up with them to find out how satisfied previous customers were. As you look into the agency, don't just rely on what it says on their website. Con artists can create legitimate looking sites with official logos that make the agency appear to be authentic, even if it isn't.

Watching for signs

It's easy for hopeful parents to ignore warning signs during an adoption process, because they are so focused on becoming new parents. It is important to pay close attention and look out for small indications that the person you are dealing with is not legitimate. If your agent refuses to meet with your attorney, or will not give you information that you request about the child or the adoption process, they probably have something to hide. Also keep in mind that the adoption process is not final until the baby is legally yours - watch out for agents who talk like the deal is finalized early on, or refer to the child as "yours". This is often done to provoke an emotional connection with the victims of the scam and keep them involved and giving money for as long as possible.

Agents who contact you

Some scam artists pretending to be adoption agents will contact hopeful parents and offer their services. A real agency does not contact people and try to sign them up as clients. Be wary of anyone who calls with any offer for adoption services as they are very likely attempting to con you.

The adoption process is a long, difficult and emotional road. People hoping to become parents should keep in mind that there is no easy path or shortcut to adopting a child. Anyone planning to adopt should investigate every agency they consider dealing with, and take every precaution to protect themselves and avoid being the victims of a scam.