Scammers posing as U.S. Customs and Border Protection are targeting Wisconsin residents, according to a May 24 news release from the Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin. Posing as Customs and Border Protection agents, the scammers claim to have intercepted a package addressed to the victim. The scam takes place in two different formats, both aimed at gaining access to the victim's personal information and bank account.
In the first version, victims receive a call, email or text message claiming that US Customs and Border Patrol intercepted a suspicious package addressed to the victim containing drugs, weapons, money or other contraband products. The victim is urged to respond immediately or an arrest warrant will be issued against them. The “agent” asks for personal information to “verify your identity,” but this is just a ruse to steal the victim’s identity.
The second version involves the fake customs agent saying they intercepted a package addressed to the victim containing a huge lottery prize. To receive their winnings, the victim is asked to pay huge fees for special shipping labels.
Contacts may appear official or make threats, but victims should not respond. To avoid these scam attempts, the BBB encourages people to do the following:
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Be wary of unsolicited calls, texts and emails. No matter who they claim to be, stay safe and don't give out your personal information.
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Do you think this is an official government call? Think again. Government agencies usually contact you by mail, so they are unlikely to contact you by phone, email, or text.
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Don't rely on a name or badge number. Several consumers told the BBB that the scammer provided a name and badge number. It's just an attempt to gain your trust.
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Ignore it! US Customs and Border Protection advises anyone experiencing this scam to hang up or ignore the message.
