CBIC Online Fraud Alert: These days, there is a constant rise in fraud instances. Innocent people are being deceived by fraudsters who use various techniques to entangle them in their web. In the meantime, the public was cautioned by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to be on the lookout for fraudulent activities carried out under the guise of Indian Customs.
CBIC Issues Warning on Social Media
Let us tell you that CBIC, while giving information on its social media platform X, wrote that "CBIC launched a campaign against fraud in the name of Indian Customs. CBIC has urged the public to understand the modus operandi of fraudsters, keep their information safe, verify the antecedents of the caller and report such acts by being vigilant".
Methods of fraud
False call/SMS: Con artists impersonating couriers or staff members use phone calls, texts, or emails to trick victims into believing that a package has been seized by customs and that payment of a customs duty or fee is necessary to release it.
By pressuring: Con artists may assume the identity of CBI, Police, or Customs officers and demand payment of customs tax in order to have a delivery from overseas cleared.
By demanding money: By requesting payment the victims are informed that the shipment has been confiscated by Customs officers who have discovered illicit goods like drugs, counterfeit passports, and foreign currency. Fraudsters may issue threats of fines or legal action. Fraudsters could ask for payment to resolve the issue.
How to protect yourself
- Do not make any payment to any person claiming to be from the Customs Department without verifying their authenticity.
- Report any suspicious activities or fraudulent calls to CBIC or local authorities
All official communications from the Indian Customs Department include a Document Identification Number (DIN), which can be verified on the official website of CBIC.