MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Friday warned the public against scammers claiming to be from their agency asking for payments for the release of their parcels or packages.
The Customs issued the warning following complaints and reports of scammers using fake e-mail accounts and website under the name of the bureau to communicate with their potential victims.
“Reports and complaints have recently proliferated about people who claim to have communicated with individuals allegedly from the BOC who in turn ask payment for the release of parcels or packages from the Bureau,” BOC said in a statement.
“The BOC warns the public to refrain from further communicating with such individuals as these are organized scammers,” it added.
BOC said it is currently coordinating with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to take down the fake accounts and hold those responsible accountable.
The bureau reminded the public that the only official website of the Bureau of Customs is https://customs.gov.ph while boc.cares@customs.gov.ph is the official e-mail address that caters to stakeholder concerns.
“As the BOC continues to promote and utilize online systems, the public is reminded to remain vigilant against criminals who take advantage of technology to commit unscrupulous acts,” BOC said.[ac]