Adoption fraud, also known as illegal adoption, can be defined as when a person or institute attempts to either illegally adopt a child or illegally give up a child for adoption.[1] Common ways in which this can be done include dishonesty and bribes.[1][2]
It can be quite difficult to obtain accurate statistics concerning adoption fraud. However, according to government statistics, "603 adoptions were recorded by Greece's courts in 2005, an increase of 20 percent over the previous year. But fewer than 60 of these adoptions were carried out through state channels",[3] meaning that in some regions of the world up to 90% of adoptions have the potential of being illegal.
Genetics and other forms of identification may help in convicting and catching those who do adoption fraud. This technology also has the potential to block potential criminals from committing this crime beforehand.[4][5]
In addition to being an offense that carries a felony in many nations (including the United States) adoption fraud is also illegal on an international scale. Perpetrators of this felony may face imprisonment and fines if they are convicted.[4][5][6][7]
The Dr. Phil Show had an episode revolving around an adoption scam between a couple and single mother. The couple placed an ad on Craigslist to which the scammer immediately replied. The couple was sent fake ultrasounds and fake medical reports, and received money. With the use of technology, the scammer was able to keep the lie about giving the child to them for more than nine months. The episode informed people about signs to look out for when adopting a child, especially when it is not through an adoption agency.[9]
