In recent times, there has been a surge in reports regarding fraudulent calls and messages from scammers posing as officials from the Customs Department. These calls typically inform individuals that they owe customs duties for a package they supposedly ordered, even when no such order has been placed. The public must be aware of these scams and take necessary precautions to avoid falling victim to such fraudulent activities.
1. It’s a Scam:
First and foremost, it’s important to recognize that these calls are part of a widespread scam. Legitimate government agencies, including the Indian Customs Department, do not make unsolicited calls or send text messages demanding payment for customs duties. If you receive such a call, be cautious and refrain from providing any personal or financial information.
2. Indian Customs Never Call/SMS to Pay Customs Duty in Personal Bank Accounts:
The modus operandi of these scammers often involves pressuring individuals to make immediate payments for alleged customs duties directly into personal bank accounts. Authentic Customs Departments follow proper procedures, and any legitimate payment requests will be made through official channels, such as bank drafts or online payment gateways directly linked to the customs department.
3. Verify All Communications of Indian Customs with DIN on CBIC’s Website:
To ensure the authenticity of any communication claiming to be from the Indian Customs Department, individuals are advised to verify the Document Identification Number (DIN) on the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) website. The DIN is a unique identifier assigned to every communication from the government, allowing citizens to cross-verify the legitimacy of such communications.
Taking the following precautions can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams. Remember that government agencies, including customs, always follow established protocols, and any deviation from these procedures should raise suspicion.
If you suspect that you have received a fraudulent call or message, it is recommended to report the incident to the local law enforcement authorities and the official channels of the Indian Customs Department to help prevent further scams and protect the community from such deceptive practices. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and together we can combat these scams effectively.
