Phone Scammers Target Citizens by Impersonating Customs Agents

On November 9, 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection issued a warning regarding a surge in phone scams where individuals impersonate CBP employees. These scammers typically call victims and falsely claim that a shipment involving drugs or money linked to the victims has been seized. They create a sense of urgency and fear by suggesting that law enforcement is on the way, prompting victims to provide sensitive personal information or money. To validate their claims, the scammers may offer familiar names and badge numbers of actual CBP officials. The CBP emphasized that they will never contact individuals requesting money or social security numbers in relation to investigations. Rod Hudson, Acting Director of Field Operations for CBP Houston, advised citizens to recognize these calls as scams, regardless of how convincing the callers may sound. The agency also stressed that legitimate calls will never include threats or demands for payment. Scammers often use tactics such as caller ID spoofing to appear legitimate and may pressure victims into cooperation. They may accept payments in unauthorized forms such as gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. The CBP has asserted that the Department of Homeland Security does not conduct financial solicitations over the phone, reinforcing the need for public vigilance against these scams. Individuals who receive such calls should avoid providing any information and should independently verify any claims by contacting CBP directly through official channels. Ignoring such calls is the recommended course of action to prevent falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.