Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam

नकली अंतर्राष्ट्रीय शिपिंग कस्टम्स फीस घोटाला

INDIA — By BharatSecure Threat Intelligence Team ·

Verdict: Dangerous | Risk Score: 9/10 | Severity: MEDIUM

Category: Other, Government

How Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam Works

  1. Step 1: Scammers initiate automated or live calls claiming to be from Indian Customs Department or courier service
  2. Step 2: They state there's a problem with victim's parcel - either containing illegal items or intercepted by customs
  3. Step 3: Victim is instructed to press specific number (typically '9') to speak with a representative
  4. Step 4: Live scammer posing as customs officer connects and requests sensitive personal details like Aadhaar, PAN, bank screenshots
  5. Step 5: Scammer cites IPC sections and threatens legal action, jail time, or police custody to create panic
  6. Step 6: They demand immediate payment via UPI or online banking as customs duty, tax, or penalty to resolve the issue

How This Scam Works — Detailed Explanation

The Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam targets Indian citizens by falsely claiming that a parcel addressed to them is held by customs due to unpaid fees. Scammers typically start with an unsolicited call or message, pretending to be customs officials or courier company representatives. They create a sense of urgency, telling victims that their shipment contains illegal items or contraband requiring immediate payment of customs duty or fines. Since many Indians use international e-commerce sites, the mention of a parcel seems believable and prompts victims to listen carefully.

Scammers often exploit common Indian payment methods like UPI apps (Google Pay, Paytm), mobile banking, or net banking to demand instant payments. They may pressure victims by threatening legal action such as police custody, jail time, or court cases if the fee is not paid immediately. Some scammers also ask for sensitive personal details including Aadhaar number, PAN card details, bank account info, or screenshots of account balances, which can be used for identity theft or unauthorized transactions.

These fraudsters know that official customs authorities in India do not call individuals by phone or demand payments this way. In reality, customs correspondence is sent via official letters or emails. However, victims unfamiliar with this may unwittingly comply due to fear or confusion. Once the payment is made, scammers vanish or continue to extract more money. Victims often lose significant amounts, and their personal information can be misused for further scams or financial fraud.

The scam also spreads through WhatsApp messages and social media, where fake documents or fake customs notifications circulate to add credibility. Victims should be extra cautious if they receive calls about parcels they did not order or have no knowledge of. Recognizing the red flags and knowing the correct procedures can save many Indians from falling prey to this highly dangerous scam.

Who Does Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam Target?

Unsuspecting individuals across India who receive or expect international parcels, gifts, or courier deliveries

Red Flags — How to Identify Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam

  • Unsolicited calls about parcels - customs never initiates phone contact, they send official letters
  • Requests for Aadhaar, PAN, bank details, or account balance screenshots from supposed officials
  • Pressure for immediate payment via UPI, Paytm, Google Pay, or NetBanking to avoid legal trouble
  • Threats of jail time, police custody, or court cases unless instant payment is made
  • Claims of illegal substances found in parcels with your name without prior knowledge of any shipment

What To Do If You Encounter Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam

  1. Call 1930 immediately to report any suspicious calls or messages about customs fees for parcels
  2. Do not share your Aadhaar, PAN, bank account details, or OTPs with anyone claiming to be customs officials
  3. Refuse to make any urgent payments via UPI, Paytm, Google Pay, or net banking when pressured over phone
  4. Verify parcel and customs fee claims only through official courier websites or directly contact genuine customs offices
  5. Inform family and friends about this scam to prevent them from becoming victims

How to Report Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam in India

  • Call 1930 — National Cyber Crime Helpline (24x7)
  • File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in
  • Contact your bank immediately if money was lost
  • Call RBI helpline: 14440 for banking fraud

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam?
Dangerous: Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam is a confirmed scam in India. Protect yourself from fake international shipping customs fee scams targeting Indians. Learn red flags, prevention tips & report at 1930.
How does Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam work?
Step 1: Scammers initiate automated or live calls claiming to be from Indian Customs Department or courier service Step 2: They state there's a problem with victim's parcel - either containing illegal items or intercepted by customs Step 3: Victim is instructed to press specific number (typically '9') to speak with a representative Step 4: Live scammer posing as customs officer connects and requests sensitive personal details like Aadhaar, PAN, bank screenshots Step 5: Scammer cites IPC sections and threatens legal action, jail time, or police custody to create panic
How to protect yourself from Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam?
Call 1930 immediately to report any suspicious calls or messages about customs fees for parcels Do not share your Aadhaar, PAN, bank account details, or OTPs with anyone claiming to be customs officials Refuse to make any urgent payments via UPI, Paytm, Google Pay, or net banking when pressured over phone Verify parcel and customs fee claims only through official courier websites or directly contact genuine customs offices
How to report Fake International Shipping Customs Fee Scam in India?
Report to cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 (National Cyber Crime Helpline). You can also contact your local police station's cyber cell.

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