Language services are vital in sectors like healthcare, legal, and education, ensuring clear communication across linguistic barriers. However, with the growing demand for interpreters and translators, scams targeting these services have become more prevalent. These fraudulent schemes can lead to financial losses, data breaches, and reputational damage for organizations.

As we get deeper into 2025, it’s important to be aware of the threats out there. Let’s explore common scams in the language services industry, share real-world examples, and offer practical tips to safeguard against them.

Common Scams in the Language Services Industry

1. Fake Interpreter or Translator Credentials
Scammers often present falsified certifications or qualifications to gain contracts, particularly in industries requiring specialized knowledge, like healthcare and legal services. Organizations hiring these individuals may face legal consequences if an unqualified interpreter contributes to a misdiagnosis or courtroom miscommunication.

A legal firm hired a translator who claimed to have certification from a recognized agency. Upon review, it was discovered that the translator had no formal training, and key legal documents were riddled with errors, delaying court proceedings. Liberty’s own educational department, the Academy of Interpretation, saw an increase in forged certificates from prospective interpreters.

2. Overcharging for Unnecessary Services

Some agencies or independent interpreters inflate their bills by including unnecessary services or hidden fees. Public schools and healthcare facilities are especially vulnerable, as these institutions often operate under tight budgets. Recently there have been more cases of school districts signing a contract with a language services provider that billed for hours not worked and inflated fees for common languages. These district later found discrepancies totaling tens of thousands of dollars.

3. Phishing and Impersonation Scams

Fraudsters impersonate legitimate language service providers or interpreters to access sensitive information. This is particularly concerning in healthcare and legal settings where confidentiality is critical. One hospital recently received an email supposedly from their contracted language services provider asking for updated payment details. The email was a phishing attempt, and the hospital lost thousands of dollars to the scam.

4. “Pay-to-Play” Certification Scams

Some fraudulent entities target aspiring interpreters, offering fake certifications for a fee. These scams exploit individuals seeking entry into the language services industry and dilute the pool of qualified professionals available for critical roles. We’ve heard stories of new interpreters paying for what they believed was a recognized certification only to find out it held no credibility, limiting their job prospects and wasting their money.

How to Identify and Avoid Scams

1. Verify Credentials
Always check the certifications of interpreters and translators through recognized bodies such as the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI) or the American Translators Association (ATA). Request a proof of certification and verify it directly with the issuing organization.

2. Use Trusted Providers
Partner with reputable language services providers like Liberty Language Services that follow rigorous screening processes for their interpreters and translators. Avoid agencies that promise unusually low rates or quick turnarounds without verifying their legitimacy.

3. Review Contracts Carefully
Be wary of ambiguous terms in service contracts. Ensure all fees, services, and deliverables are clearly outlined. Seek legal counsel if you’re unsure about a contract’s terms.

4. Train Staff on Phishing and Cybersecurity
Educate employees to recognize phishing emails or fraudulent calls. Use secure methods to exchange sensitive information and confirm any changes to payment or contact details through direct communication.

5. Conduct Regular Audits

Review billing statements for inconsistencies. Periodically assess the quality of services provided to ensure they meet industry standards. Regular audits help organizations maintain control over their financial and operational activities, ensuring they receive the quality of service they’re paying for and protecting them from potential scams or inefficiencies.

The Role of Liberty Language Services in Scam Prevention

Liberty Language Services is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the language services industry. Here’s how we help clients safeguard against scams:

• • Certified Professionals: Our interpreters and translators undergo rigorous screening and hold industry-recognized certifications.
  • Transparent Billing: We provide detailed, upfront pricing to avoid hidden fees or unexpected charges.
  • Secure Communication: Liberty uses advanced cybersecurity measures to protect client information and prevent data breaches.
  • Quality Assurance: We regularly evaluate our interpreters and translators to ensure consistent service quality.

Scams in the language services industry can have serious consequences for healthcare providers, legal professionals, and educational institutions. By staying informed, verifying credentials, and partnering with trusted providers like Liberty Language Services, organizations can protect themselves and their clients from fraudulent practices.

If you’re looking for a reliable language services partner dedicated to transparency and excellence, contact Liberty Language Services today. Together, we can ensure that your organization receives the high-quality interpretation and translation services it deserves.