Be cautious of scammers pretending to be agents from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. They may try to fool you into giving them money and personal information. They often send recorded messages or fake texts claiming that illegal items have been found in a package addressed to you. It’s important not to respond to these messages or click on any links because they are trying to steal your information. There are new scam text messages pretending to be from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) going around.
The scammers use different tactics to try and trick you into giving up your personal information or money. To protect yourself from becoming a victim, it’s essential to be able to recognize these scams. They can be very convincing and may even provide a fake case number to scare you. If you receive such a message, it’s crucial to recognize the warning signs. U.S. Customs and Border Protection does not communicate like this regarding legal matters or seized items. To better protect yourself, always be cautious of unsolicited calls, texts, or emails, especially ones claiming urgent issues with packages. Always verify the source before sharing any personal information.
Scammers Impersonate Customs and Border Protection: What to Look For
How the Scam Works
Scammers send text messages claiming to be from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). They may say a package with your name on it was stopped. They’ll then ask for personal info or money to get the package released.
Why It’s a Scam
CBP never contacts people by text about packages. They won’t ask for your personal info or money over text. If you get a text like this, it’s a scam.
What to Do If You Get a Scam Text
- Don’t click on links or open attachments: They may contain malware.
- Don’t reply to the text: This lets the scammer know your number is active.
- Don’t give out your personal info: Never share your Social Security number, bank account info, or other sensitive data over text.
- Report the scam: You can report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
How to Protect Yourself
- Be skeptical of unexpected texts: Don’t trust a text just because it claims to be from CBP.
- Don’t click on links from unknown senders: If you’re not sure who sent you a text, don’t click on any links in it.
- Don’t give out your personal info over text: Only share your personal info with trusted sources.
Additional Tips
- Block the number: If you get a scam text, block the number so you don’t get any more messages from them.
- Sign up for a scam alert service: These services can warn you about known scams.
Examples of Scam Texts
| Scam Text | Why It’s a Scam |
|---|---|
| “U.S. Customs: Your package is held at our facility. Pay the fee to release it: [link]” | CBP doesn’t send texts about packages or ask for payment over text. |
| “CBP Alert: Your shipment has been seized. Call us immediately at [phone number].” | CBP doesn’t make unsolicited calls about seized shipments. |
| “Customs and Border Protection: You have a package containing illegal items. Provide your information for verification: [link]” | CBP doesn’t ask for personal information over text. |
Remember, scammers are always coming up with new ways to trick people. Be vigilant and protect yourself by following the tips above.
If you think you’ve been a victim of a scam, report it to the authorities.
Sample Text
If you receive a text like this, it’s definitely a SCAM. Don’t respond. Report as SPAM to your carrier if you have that option in your texts.
======================================================BEGIN
U.S. Customs: You have a USPS parcel being cleared, due to the detection of an invalid zip code address, the parcel can not be cleared, the parcel is temporarily detained, please confirm the zip code address information in the link within 24 hours.
[FAKE URL USUALLY WITH THE WORD USPS IN IT]
(Please reply with a Y, then exit the text message and open it again to activate the link, or copy the link into your Safari browser and open it)
Have a great day from the USPS team!
======================================================END
Key Takeaways
- Scammers impersonate U.S. Customs to steal personal information.
- Always be cautious of unsolicited messages about suspicious packages.
- Verify the source before sharing personal details.
Understanding U.S. Customs Scams
Scammers pose as agents from U.S. Customs and Border Protection to trick people. They often use calls, texts, and emails to steal personal information or money.
Identifying Fraudulent Communications
Fraudulent communications can come in many forms — phone calls, emails, texts. They often use official-sounding language. For example, they might claim a warrant is out for your arrest. They could also say that a package in your name has illegal items. The message might ask for personal information or payment.
Warning signs to watch out for:
- Unsolicited contact: Random calls, texts, or emails.
- Urgent language: Scammers often use threats or a sense of urgency.
- Requests for personal info: Asking for Social Security numbers, bank details.
Common Scam Tactics and Warning Signs
Scammers use several common tactics to fool their targets. They might claim to be from a government agency like the FTC, ICE, or U.S. Customs and Border Protection. They might use fake phone numbers that look official. Sometimes, they even mimic the CBP website.
Common tactics include:
- Phishing scams: Asking for personal or financial information.
- Suspicious package schemes: Claiming a package has been intercepted.
- Sweepstakes scams: Telling victims they won a prize but need to pay a fee.
Be alert to these warning signs:
- Unknown caller ID: Especially if it looks like a government number.
- Pressure to act fast: Scammers want quick decisions.
- Errors in message: Grammar or spelling mistakes.
The Role of Government Agencies in Scam Prevention
Government agencies work hard to prevent scams. The Better Business Bureau and U.S. Postal Inspection Service help track and shut down scams. They provide resources for victims and the public.
Key agencies involved:
- FTC: Tracks scams and takes legal action against scammers. Report scams at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Better Business Bureau: Helps track scams through BBB Scam Tracker.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection: Warns the public about scams and offers support.
What you can do:
- Report scams: Contact the FTC or BBB.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from government agencies.
- Protect your info: Be cautious with personal details.
Preventative Measures and What to Do if Targeted
Stay protected by knowing how to safeguard personal details and properly respond to scam attempts. Follow these steps to keep your information secure.
How to Protect Personal Information
Avoid sharing sensitive data such as your social security number, date of birth, and bank account details unless it’s a trusted source. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and change them regularly.
Enable two-factor authentication for added security. Be cautious when asked to update or give personal info over text, call, or email. Always confirm the legitimacy of the request by contacting the company directly.
Steps to Report and Respond to Scam Attempts
If you get a suspicious message, do not click on links or open attachments. Hang up immediately if you suspect a scam call. Note the caller ID, name, or badge number provided.
Report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. If you’ve shared personal info or wired money, inform your bank and contact local police.
Guidelines to Follow When Receiving Unexpected Messages
Be wary of text messages or calls warning of suspicious package schemes. Messages claiming an unexpected package delivery or urgent issues need close inspection.
Verify any unusual claims by contacting U.S. Border Patrol directly. Do not respond to suspicious messages. Use caution when reading messages suggesting urgent action involving payment forms like gift cards or cryptocurrency.
