Adoption Fraud

It is important to distinguish between an adoption scam and a "disrupted" or "failed" adoption. A birth parent changing their mind about placing a child for adoption is generally not a scam, as they have a legal right to change their mind. A scam involves deliberate deception from the outset.

Common Types of Adoption Fraud:

• Fabricated Matching / False Promises: Fictitious birth mothers who aren't pregnant, or individuals with no intention of placing their baby for adoption, seeking financial assistance.
• Double Matching: A birth mother or an unethical facilitator matches the same baby to multiple families, collecting money from each.
• Fee-Related Scams: Exorbitant upfront fees, hidden fees, or pressure to send money directly to an expectant parent.
• Impersonation and Unlicensed Providers: Falsely claiming to be licensed adoption agencies or operating as unregulated "facilitators."

Red Flags of Adoption Scams:

• Unsolicited contact from an expectant parent or agency.
• Pressure and urgency to make immediate decisions or payments.
• Vague or inconsistent information regarding medical records or licensing.
• Refusal to involve licensed adoption professionals.
• Direct money requests via untraceable methods.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Work with Licensed Professionals: Choose a licensed, experienced adoption agency or attorney and verify their credentials.
• Do Your Due Diligence: Research thoroughly and understand all fee structures.
• Verify Information Independently: Insist on verifiable proof of pregnancy from a medical provider.