Custom Scam Awareness

Scammers keep finding new ways to trap people and steal money from customer’s bank accounts. One of the most common scam these days has seen many innocent individuals fall for is ‘Customs Fraud’.

Scammers call their target posing as an officer from the Indian Customs Department. The call starts with the pre-recorded message where it mentions things like there is something wrong with your parcel that you were sending online. Or, it may mention about the package containing something illegal.

Then they ask users to press ‘9’ to get the support and more details on their parcel. Once users press 9, it connects the call to a representative who also pretends to be from the custom department.

Usually, they try to threaten/blackmail users by telling them that there’s something illegal in the package or asking them to pay some amount as tax. And, this is where the scam takes place.

What can you do?

First and foremost, confirm whether you or someone from your family has sent any courier. If not, it is best to avoid the call. However, to be sure, you can verify all communications of Indian Customs on CBIC’s website.

Moreover, it is best to avoid any link you’ve received on your phone from their end, irrespective of how authentic it looks. Also, avoid sharing any additional personal information with them over the call. Your personal information can be used to further trap you.

Also, don’t forget to report it with the local police or with the Cyber Crime department.