Airport Customs authorities warned the public on Tuesday against a new scheme called “parcel scam or love scam,” a fraudulent means by which criminal syndicates victimize consignees of cargoes and parcels, demanding sums of money in exchange for the immediate release of their shipment.
Customs collector Mimel Talusan said syndicates using social-media platforms send text, call, or e-mail to supposed consignees of cargoes and parcels, demanding sums of money as “clearance fees” for the release of their alleged shipments from Bureau of Customs.
Talusan said syndicates dropped the names of Customs officials through Facebook, Messenger and assistance hot lines, especially during the pandemic, to lend legitimacy, telling would-be recipients of cargoes and packages being “held by Customs” supposedly sent to them by their “chatmates” or online friend.”
Talusan said that the airport Customs district does not require “clearance fees,” or demand payment of Customs duties and taxes via phone, or receive payments through money remittance centers or personal bank accounts.
She said the airport Customs branch only accepts payment of Customs duties and taxes thru authorized agent banks (AAB) or Customs cashiers that will issue the corresponding official receipt for every payment made.
She said the public is likewise advised to call the Bureau of Customs-Ninoy Aquino International Airport assistance hotlines for Globe subscribers: (0956)-924-2626 and (0956)-924-2627; for Smart subscribers: (0961)-759-4067, (0961)-759-4068, and (0919)-925-6785; and for Sun Cellular: (0932)-844-3390 or Email Address at bocnaiafeedback@gmail.com for queries and concerns to avoid being victimized by fraudulent parties.
“Please cooperate with us for the immediate arrest of these scammers, and be assured your names will be strictly confidential,” Talusan said.