How Desperate Timelines Are Being Exploited

As OPT deadlines approach and pressure mounts, many F-1 international students find themselves vulnerable to scams that promise quick fixes — and deliver serious consequences. One of the most dangerous among them is the “guaranteed OPT job for 1 year” scam, which has already affected numerous students across the US.

If you’re feeling desperate, this is exactly when scammers strike.

How the OPT job Scam Works

Scammers typically target students who:

· Are close to their OPT unemployment limit

· Haven’t secured a job yet

· Fear falling out of legal status

They approach students through:

· whatsapp and Telegram groups

· data-facebook and LinkedIn messages

· “Consultancies” claiming OPT/CPT expertise

The offer sounds reassuring:

“We’ll give you a job offer, payroll, and experience letter for 12 months — no real work required.”

But this is where the danger begins.

The Reality Behind the “Job”

In most cases, the promised job is completely fake:

· No real employer

· No actual work

· No legitimate supervision

· No verifiable business activity

Students are often asked to:

· Pay monthly fees

· Share personal documents

· Sign false employment agreements

This creates a paper trail of fraud — even if the student never intended to cheat the system.

Why This Is Extremely Risky

US immigration authorities consider this serious fraud, not a minor mistake. Consequences can include:

· SEVIS termination

· OPT revocation

· Visa cancellation

· Denial of future visas or Green Card

· Deportation and re-entry bans

Most importantly, “I didn’t know” is not accepted as a defense.

Why students Fall for It

Scammers thrive on pressure and fear. Common reasons students fall into the trap include:

· OPT unemployment clock running out

· Family expectations

· Financial stress

· Lack of guidance from universities

Scammers exploit this emotional vulnerability by presenting themselves as “helpers”.

Red Flags You Should Never Ignore

🚩 job requires payment
🚩 “Guaranteed approval” claims
🚩 No interview or vague job description
🚩 Employer refuses video calls
🚩 Asked to falsify duties or timesheets
🚩 Promises to “handle USCIS if problems arise”

If you see even one of these — walk away immediately.

What You Should Do Instead

If you’re close to your OPT deadline:

· Speak to your DSO (Designated school Official)

· Look for legitimate unpaid internships (allowed under OPT if compliant)

· Explore volunteer roles related to your field

· Consider further education or change of status options

These may not be easy — but they are legal and safe.

Remember: Scammers Disappear, Consequences Don’t

The consultancy will vanish if trouble arises.
USCIS will not.

A fake job today can destroy:

· Your US career

· Your immigration future

· Years of hard work and investment

Final Warning

If someone promises to “save your OPT” without real work — they are not saving you, they are setting you up.

Desperation is understandable.
Risking your immigration status is not worth it.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.