By IBIRONKE ARIYO

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has warned members of the public against scammers and fake websites impersonating its official platforms.

The warning, issued via its official social media platforms on Thursday in Abuja also urged applicants to use only authorised portals for all immigration-related services.

The service said the warning became necessary to protect Nigerians and foreign nationals from fraudulent websites designed to exploit unsuspecting applicants seeking passport, visa and other immigration services.

According to NIS, the official landing page for passport applications is the service’s designated passport portal.

“Separate official platforms exist for visa applications at Nigerian embassies, electronic visa (e-Visa), Temporary Work Permit (TWP) and the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (eCERPAC),”

The service urged members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid patronising unauthorised websites or persons claiming to represent the NIS or facilitate its services.

It reiterated that applicants should access immigration services only through the official online platforms to avoid falling victim to scammers and compromising their personal information.

The NIS further disclosed that its Mobile Application for Contactless Passport Application was available for download on Apple iOS and Google Play Store.

It said this provided applicants with a secure and convenient alternative for passport processing.

The service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of its digital platforms and ensuring seamless service delivery to the public.

It advised applicants seeking immigration services to verify the authenticity of websites before making payments or submitting personal details.

It added that only information disseminated through its official channels should be relied upon.

The NIS urged the public to exercise caution at all times and promptly report suspicious websites or fraudulent activities relating to its services to the appropriate authorities. (NAN)

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