UK Mission steps up anti-fraud drive in Kurukshetra, warns youth against visa scams
Officials urge students to rely on verified sources while planning overseas education or employment and to stay cautious of agents promising shortcuts
PTC Web Desk: In a bid to curb rising cases of visa fraud and promote safe migration practices, the British High Commission organised a public awareness programme in Kurukshetra, Haryana, under its ongoing ‘Visa Fraud Se Bacho’ campaign.
As part of the initiative, a photo exhibition and student engagement session were held at Indira Gandhi National College. The event aimed to educate young aspirants about the risks associated with illegal migration and fraudulent visa agents.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Alba Smeriglio, British Deputy High Commissioner Chandigarh; Charlotte Abbott, Second Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs at the British High Commission in New Delhi; Pawan Gaur, president of the college; and Prof Kushal Pal, Principal. Through visual narratives and real-life examples, the display shed light on how scammers operate, the dangers of irregular travel routes, and the importance of following authorised visa procedures.
Officials urged students to rely on verified sources while planning overseas education or employment and to stay cautious of agents promising shortcuts.
Extending the outreach beyond the campus, the delegation also visited village Ajrani, where they interacted with local residents. Villagers were informed about common fraud tactics and advised to seek guidance only through official platforms.
To further assist the public, the High Commission highlighted its digital support tools, including a WhatsApp chatbot that provides authentic information on UK travel in multiple languages. A dedicated helpline has also been made available to guide individuals on visa procedures and help them identify potential scams.
The ‘Visa Fraud Se Bacho’ campaign continues to focus on collaboration with educational institutions and local communities to spread awareness, ensuring that aspiring travellers choose legal and secure pathways while avoiding fraud.