How to Recognize an Adoption Scam

Scammers that deal in human flesh exist everywhere when it comes to adoption. It doesn't matter if it is a domestic US adoption, or one that is based in the international adoption community. If you want to adopt a baby or child, you need to be aware of the tips on how to recognize an adoption scam. Many people have been left holding an empty cradle, their hearts broke, and their cash reserves gone. Recognize and adoption scam, and prevent it from happening to other hopeful adoptive families and children too.

What are some of the warning signs of an adoption scam? Read on to find out from the list below about questionable situations, and remember too, that it's not only agencies that can scam you, but sadly the birth families as well. The best policy is to meet as quickly as possible with the agency representatives, and if possible the birth mother and father. You can garner a lot of insight about questions that are not answered to your satisfaction, and the general attitude and eye contact from others. Body language can tell you a lot about what a person is thinking or feeling. Crossed arms, avoiding eye contact, and being pushy are all signs that someone may not be comfortable with you.

Here are some tips that you'll need to notice when searching for your child or infant. If any of these situations sound familiar, recognize that it's most likely an adoption scam.

• Be wary of any adoption agency that charges in excesses of the standard norm for your surrounding area.

• There should be a well staffed ratio of children to adults in a foster care situation, or one that has institutional care.

• The needs of all the children should be met whether it's educational, living conditions and emotional needs as well.

• Question issues of all paperwork, and be leery of any adoption agency that states they will take care of it all. It's a good idea to know what other reputable agencies handle, and what is considered the responsibilities of the adoptive family.

• Be concerned if an adoption agency can't provide detailed biographical information, as well as an up to date picture, especially if it is a foreign adoption.

• If any adoption agency sates they know the laws of your state are in a process of being changed, and the promise it will be changed by the time the adoption is finalized, recognize that it is an adoption scam.

Always check the state licensing board of your state, by writing or going online to the BBB (Better Business Bureau), for the most up to date information on the agency.

This short list is certainly not all inclusive of the things to look for an adoption scam. Tactics such as baby switching and misrepresented facts about an adoptee are another example of adoption scams. Always trust your intuition if something does not seem right. If you suspect serious legal offenses are going on with the adoption agency of your choice, report them to your state Attorney Generals office, the BBB and your local state government officials. After all it's the best policy for your heart, and the heart of all children waiting to be adopted.