As the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme continues to be rolled out for travellers from various countries, it is important for individuals to be aware of the increasing prevalence of scams targeting those who need to obtain this authorisation. Under UK immigration law, an ETA is required for certain non-visa nationals seeking to enter the UK for short visits, and the process should always be straightforward and secure.

 

Unfortunately, fraudsters are exploiting the unfamiliarity with this new requirement by creating fake websites, sending deceptive emails, or even impersonating Home Office officials. These scams are designed to trick applicants into paying excessive fees or handing over sensitive personal information, which can have serious consequences for both immigration status and personal security.

 

 

What is a Fake ETA?

 

A fake ETA refers to any unauthorised or counterfeit travel authorisation that is not issued by the UK Home Office. This can take several forms, including fake websites that closely mimic the official government portal, fraudulent documents that falsely claim to guarantee ETA approval, or outright impersonation schemes where scammers pretend to be officials from the Home Office. All these tactics are aimed at misleading applicants and extracting money or personal data, which is strictly prohibited under UK law.

 

 

How to Recognise a UK ETA Scam

 

Recognising a UK ETA scam requires vigilance and an understanding of how the Home Office communicates with applicants. Scammers often set up websites that appear at the top of search engine results and use branding similar to the official UK government site, but charge fees far exceeding the official rate. Another common tactic is to contact applicants unexpectedly by phone, email, or text message, claiming to be from the Home Office and requesting payment or personal details. It is crucial to note that official Home Office emails will always come from a “@homeoffice.gov.uk” address, and any communication from a different domain should be treated with suspicion. Scammers also frequently create a sense of urgency, pressuring individuals to act quickly. Importantly, the UK government never asks for payment or personal information over the phone, so any such request should be considered a clear sign of a scam.

 

 

How to Protect Yourself from UK ETA Scams

 

Protecting yourself from ETA scams involves using only official channels for your application. The safest way to apply is directly through the official UK government website (gov.uk) or via the official UK ETA app. Always check the website address to ensure it ends in “.gov.uk” and displays a padlock symbol indicating a secure connection. It is also advisable to verify the sender details of any official communication and never to share sensitive information such as your passport number or credit card details unless you are certain the request is legitimate. The official ETA fee is currently £10 (subject to change; always check the latest information on gov.uk), and any request for a higher fee is almost certainly a scam.

 

 

Essential Tips to Avoid Scams

 

To help you stay safe and secure when applying for a UK ETA, it is crucial to be aware of common tactics used by scammers and to take proactive steps to protect yourself. Below are the most important points to remember, along with practical advice.

 

Be Cautious with Search Engine Results

  1. Top listings may be paid advertisements for fraudulent sites.
  2. Always type the official website address (gov.uk) directly into your browser.

 

Avoid Clicking on Links from Emails or Search Results

  1. Never follow links from unsolicited emails or search results to apply for your ETA.
  2. Only use trusted, official channels to submit your application.

 

Treat Unsolicited Communication with Suspicion

  1. The Home Office does not contact applicants unexpectedly for payment or personal information.
  2. Any unsolicited phone calls, emails, or messages should be treated as potential scams.

 

Report Suspected Scams Immediately

  1. If you suspect you have encountered a scam, report it to Action Fraud or the relevant authorities as soon as possible.

 

Educate Friends and Family

  1. Share information about common scams to help others avoid falling victim.

 

Keep All Receipts and Correspondence

  1. Retain all documentation related to your ETA application.
  2. If you have used a third-party site, keep records in case you need to dispute charges or request data deletion.

 

 

How to Report a UK ETA Scam

 

If you believe you have been targeted by a UK ETA scam, it is important to take prompt action. You can report the incident to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, either through their website or by calling 0300 123 2040 if you are in the UK. If you have made a payment to a suspected scammer, you should contact your bank or credit card company immediately to try to reverse the transaction. Additionally, if you have provided personal information to a scammer, you have the right to request data deletion under UK data protection laws.

 

By remaining vigilant and following these guidelines, you can protect yourself from UK ETA scams and ensure that your immigration journey remains secure and compliant with UK law.

 

 

Official Guidance from the Home Office

 

Lastly, the Home Office has recognised the growing prevalence of scams and fraud within UK immigration processes. In response, it has published official guidance outlining the most commonly reported scams and providing advice on how individuals can protect themselves.

 

For expert UK immigration advice on the ETA application process, handling refusals, or applying for a UK visa, the ARIS International Lawyers team can assist. Contact us on 020 3865 6219 or leave a message via our website.