US Customs Text Scam: How To Spot & Avoid

Are you receiving suspicious text messages claiming to be from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)? You're likely dealing with a US Customs text scam. These scams are designed to steal your personal information or money. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you identify, avoid, and report these fraudulent activities. We'll delve into how these scams operate, what they look like, and the steps you can take to protect yourself. In our experience, staying informed is the best defense. These scams are on the rise, and being aware of the tactics used is the first step in protecting yourself.

What is a US Customs Text Scam?

A US Customs text scam involves fraudulent text messages that impersonate CBP or other government agencies. Scammers send these messages to trick you into providing sensitive information, such as your social security number, bank account details, or credit card numbers. They often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly.

How These Scams Work

The typical scam involves these steps:

• Spoofing: Scammers use technology to make their messages appear as though they are from a legitimate source, such as CBP. This is achieved by manipulating the sender ID to display a familiar name or number.
• Deception: The text message contains a false claim, such as a package being held, a fine owed, or a tax issue. The goal is to make the recipient believe there's an urgent problem.
• Phishing: The message includes a link or a phone number for you to contact. Clicking the link takes you to a fake website that looks like the real CBP site, where you are asked to enter your personal information. Alternatively, calling the provided number connects you to a scammer who tries to extract the information over the phone.
• Extraction: Once you enter your information, scammers use it for identity theft, financial fraud, or to sell your data on the dark web. In other cases, they may demand payment to release a nonexistent package or resolve a fabricated issue.

Common Warning Signs

• Urgent Tone: The message creates a sense of immediate danger or consequence if you don't act quickly.
• Suspicious Links: The text contains links that lead to unfamiliar or unsecure websites. Hovering over the link often reveals a non-CBP URL.
• Unsolicited Messages: You didn't request any information from CBP, and you're not expecting a package. Legitimate agencies typically don't initiate contact through unsolicited text messages.
• Requests for Personal Information: The message asks for your social security number, bank details, or other sensitive data.
• Poor Grammar/Spelling: Many scams have grammatical errors or typos that are not typical of official government communications.

Examples of US Customs Text Scams

To better recognize these scams, here are some real-world examples that have been reported:

Example 1: Fake Package Delivery

• The Text: “US Customs: Your package is held. A fine of $250 is due. Pay here: [Suspicious Link]”
• The Scam: This scam lures you by claiming a package is being held by customs, creating a sense of urgency to pay the fine to receive it. The link leads to a fake payment portal that steals your credit card information.

Example 2: Impersonating a CBP Officer

• The Text: “CBP Officer: We need to verify your identity. Call us immediately at [Phone Number] or your package will be confiscated.”
• The Scam: This scam attempts to get you on the phone. A supposed CBP officer will try to trick you into revealing personal information or sending money to resolve a fake issue.

Example 3: Unpaid Duties Notification

• The Text: "US Customs: You have unpaid duties. Pay immediately at [Fake Website]. Failing to do so will result in legal action.""
• The Scam: This scam threatens legal action, pressuring you to pay. The link directs you to a fraudulent website designed to steal payment details.

How to Avoid US Customs Text Scams

Protecting yourself from these scams requires vigilance and a proactive approach. Here’s what you can do:

Verify the Source

• Don't Trust the Sender ID: Scammers can easily spoof the sender's identity. Always treat unsolicited messages with skepticism.
• Look for Official Contact Information: Check the CBP website for official contact details. If you suspect a message is fraudulent, contact CBP through their official channels.

Never Click Suspicious Links or Provide Personal Information

• Avoid Clicking Links: Do not click on links in suspicious text messages. Instead, manually type the official CBP website address into your browser.
• Never Provide Sensitive Data: CBP will never request your social security number, bank account details, or other sensitive information via text message.

Report Suspicious Activity

• Report to CBP: If you receive a suspicious text, report it to CBP through their official channels. You can usually do this by forwarding the message to a specific email address or using an online form.
• Report to the FTC: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. This helps law enforcement track and combat scams.

Stay Informed

• Keep Up to Date: Regularly check the CBP website and other authoritative sources for information on current scams and how to protect yourself.
• Educate Others: Share your knowledge with friends and family to help them avoid falling victim to scams. \nAccording to the FTC, in 2023, nearly 2.5 million people reported fraud, with losses exceeding $10 billion. These numbers underscore the importance of vigilance and staying informed. Source: Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book 2023.

What to Do if You've Been Scammed

If you believe you have been a victim of a US Customs text scam, take immediate action:

Report the Scam

• File a Report: Report the scam to the FTC and CBP immediately. Provide as much detail as possible, including the text message, phone number, and any information you may have provided.

Secure Your Accounts

• Change Passwords: Immediately change the passwords for all your online accounts, especially those related to banking and email.
• Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized activity.

Contact Your Financial Institutions

• Notify Banks and Credit Card Companies: Inform your financial institutions of the scam and any potentially compromised accounts.
• Consider Freezing Your Credit: This will prevent scammers from opening new accounts in your name. You can contact the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) to do this.

Consider Identity Theft Protection

• Identity Monitoring Services: Sign up for an identity theft protection service. These services monitor your credit reports and alert you to any suspicious activity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About US Customs Text Scams

1. How can I tell if a text message from Customs is legitimate?

Legitimate communications from CBP are rare via text. Always verify the message through official CBP channels. Never click links or provide personal information in response to unsolicited texts.

2. What should I do if I receive a text message from Customs about a package?

First, verify the message by contacting the sender through the official CBP website. Do not click any links in the text. Have the tracking number ready, as it is the safest way to track your package.

3. Can US Customs contact me by text message?

While possible, it’s rare. They typically use text messages for appointment reminders, or as a secondary channel of communication. Always be skeptical of any unsolicited messages, particularly those requesting sensitive information.

4. What information do scammers try to obtain in these text scams?

Scammers attempt to obtain your social security number, bank account details, credit card numbers, and other sensitive personal information that can be used for identity theft or financial fraud. — Dynamic Image Repositioning On Scroll With JavaScript & CSS

5. How can I protect my personal information from falling into the wrong hands?

Be cautious about sharing personal information online or over the phone. Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and monitor your accounts regularly. Consider using a password manager to keep your credentials safe. — Alexa Down? Troubleshooting & Status Updates

6. What should I do if I clicked on a suspicious link in a text message?

If you clicked a link, immediately change your passwords, run a malware scan on your device, and monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity. Report the incident to the FTC and CBP.

7. Are these scams only targeting people in the US?

While the scams often reference US Customs, these scams can target anyone, anywhere. They may target anyone who orders goods or has dealings with the US.

Conclusion

US Customs text scams are a significant threat, designed to exploit trust and urgency to steal personal and financial information. By staying informed, verifying the source of any communication, and reporting suspicious activity, you can protect yourself from these fraudulent schemes. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, or creates a sense of immediate crisis, it probably is. Always verify any requests for information through official channels, and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities. In our view, the more proactive you are, the safer you will be. — Canelo Álvarez: Weight Classes & His Boxing Journey

Remember to stay vigilant and informed! And by staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of a US Customs text scam. If you've been targeted, report it and take immediate steps to secure your personal information.