Beware the Poison Pen Letter

A poison pen letter is an anonymous letter with the intention of harming or damaging the subject. It can contain the truth but also false allegations, sensitive information, and malicious gossip, and often leads to action from immigration departments (IRCC, CBSA) in the immigration context. The term "poison pen letter" refers to the idea that the letter is like a poison that harms the recipient. Such letters can have serious consequences for the person targeted and can cause multi-year delay in processing or even the initiation of enforcement action. In the described case, the visa officer was persuaded by a poison pen letter despite a good response to the PFL made by a previous representative, causing a delay for the client and his family. While the IAD does not give much weight to spurious, anonymous letters but visa officers are often influenced by them. A poison pen letter is an anonymous letter that is intended to harm or damage the reputation of the person or group to whom it is addressed. Poison pen letters are often used to spread rumors, lies, or malicious gossip, and they can be sent to a wide variety of recipients, including individuals, businesses, and organizations.... Read more →