Telegram Scammers Sell Fake Diplomas Using E-Government Signatures Amid National Probe

While Turkey’s fake diploma scandal continues to dominate headlines, investigations reveal that illegal document sales persist on encrypted messaging platforms like Telegram. In one such group titled “Avrupa İltica ve Göç” (European Asylum and Migration), users are still actively promoting fake diplomas, certificates, and e-Government-approved documents for cash.

One individual identified only as “H.” claims to offer a wide array of fraudulent services, including the creation of fake diplomas, public personnel eligibility documents, driving test score alterations, and even manipulation of university exam scores (DGS, YGS, ALES). According to H., prices now start at €2,500, and can climb as high as $20,000, especially as increased media scrutiny has driven up demand and risk.

Fraudulent Certificates Claim E-Government Validity

H. asserts that the documents provided are “verified in the e-Devlet system”, Turkey’s national digital ID platform. As proof of legitimacy, H. refers to the recent high-profile fake diploma investigations, arguing that the current “media storm” is evidence the documents are being used successfully.

“Journalists are already reporting on these diplomas,” he reportedly told a skeptical customer. “You’ll believe me when I show you two new operations I’m doing this week.”

Telegram Groups Offer Asylum ‘Packages’ and Fake Documents

The Telegram group functions as a black-market hub for illegal migration, offering “packages” to asylum seekers looking to reach Europe by truck or foot. The most expensive journey is priced at €4,000, with sellers claiming to smuggle people across borders to visa-free destinations.

Within the group, forged documents such as diplomas, passports, licenses, and vocational certificates are frequently requested. At least five users recently asked for fake paperwork to strengthen their asylum cases. One buyer posted a warning after being scammed twice despite paying deposits, suggesting fraud within the fraud.

University Official’s Digital Signature Abused

In another troubling development, a user tied to the account “Global Göç Vize ve Danışmanlık” advertised forged language and vocational training certificates in 2022. The fake documents included course completion certificates with digital signatures of Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University (FSMVÜ) Continuing Education Director İsmail Öz.

The forged certificates—some priced at 2,200–2,600 TL—falsely claimed the holder had completed 2,224 hours of training, despite never attending any courses. The group promised 3–7 day delivery, and required full payment upfront.

National Security and Education Integrity at Risk

As fake diploma networks exploit digital platforms and abuse state-linked tools like e-signatures, experts warn that the legitimacy of Turkey’s education and civil service systems is under direct threat. The use of real officials’ identities and digital credentials elevates the issue beyond fraud into the realm of cybercrime and identity abuse, calling for urgent action from law enforcement and education authorities.