Adoption is a subject that I am passionate and thrilled to write about weekly for Bella Online. However, that's all I am--a writer. I'm not able to tell you if your particular situation sounds like a scam. I'm also not able to provide you with legal advice if you think you are in the middle of an adoption scam.

Just what can I do, you ask?

In the next few months, I'll be talking with adoption agencies, social workers, and attorneys for tips on avoiding adoption scams, and steps to take if you find yourself the victim of a scam.

To start with, I'll be creating a new subject on the Adoption Site called “Adoption Scams”. Under this subject heading, you'll find links and descriptions of all related articles.

Not a week goes by that I don't hear or read about an adoption scam. I don't understand how someone can take advantage of a single person or couple that wants to provide a loving home to a child. The fact that someone is willing to take advantage of this is just sickening!

However, the reality is that this is happening to too many unsuspecting people. It's important to note that it's not just prospective adoptive parents that can be victimized by an adoption scam. Adoption agencies, social workers, and even attorneys can find themselves the victims of these cruel intentions.

As said earlier, I don't have the resources or background to tell you if you have been the victim of an adoption scam. My heart goes out to each person who e-mails me on this subject.

Based on the e-mails I've received, I think we need more support for those who started the adoption process with the best of intentions, only to be sidetracked by a cruel and heartless scammer. While adoption scam databases are a great tool, there needs to be additional support for those going through the emotional turmoil and results of such scams.

In addition to publishing articles about adoption scams, I'll also be hosting discussions on the adoption forum. You are more than welcome to join in these discussions anytime.