Bengaluru, 27 Dec 

The Customs Department at the Kempegowda International Airport issued an alert after detecting a racket in which fraudsters posing as customs officials extort money from the public. Customs said that fraudsters are targeting the poor through phone calls, social media and messaging platforms.

The scammers falsely claim that a passenger coming from abroad has been detained by Customs, and demand payment to “resolve” the issue. The Customs Commissioner said, “Customs officials never contact people via phone, WhatsApp, or social media to demand payment of fines.

Moreover, we do not accept money into personal bank accounts. All payments to the government are made only through authorised counters or online portals.” Explaining the modus operandi, Customs officials said the fraudsters first befriend the victims, and later claim that a friend or relative of theirs has been stopped at the airport.

They threaten the victims with jail unless Customs duty is paid immediately, prompting the victims to transfer large sums to personal bank accounts, UPI IDs or digital wallets. Once the money is transferred, the fraudsters cut all communication.

The Customs department clarified that no passenger is harassed for non-payment of duty, and that all procedures are carried out as per rules, and under CCTVs at the airport.

The Customs urged people not to respond to calls seeking money in the name of Customs. Those who get such calls should report the matter by emailing commrapacc-cusblr@gov.in or by contacting the cybercrime helpline at 1930.