Fraud
Fraud attempts are common and can take many different forms. It is important to be vigilant to avoid disclosing information or paying for anything or to anyone who is trying to deceive you.
Many people contact Swedish Customs about attempted fraud
In some cases, the sender may appear to be Swedish Customs or a well-known transport company, but it may also be a company that does not exist or a person you have only known for a short time. There are several ways that fraudsters can contact you, for example via text message, phone call, email or letter.
Often, the amounts involved are small, a strategy used to avoid arousing suspicion in the person being targeted by the fraud attempt. However, in some cases, larger amounts may also be involved.
If you are unsure whether it is a fraud attempt where you are asked for some reason to provide information or pay customs duties, you are always welcome to contact us.
If you suspect that you have been the victim of fraud, we recommend that you report this to the police.
Fraudulent text messages, emails and letters
Pay attention to who the sender is if you receive a message asking you to pay customs duty. Ask yourself: does this seem reasonable?
Swedish Customs never sends messages via text message and will never ask you to click on a link or log in with your bank ID.
Romance fraud
Have you made a new acquaintance online who is now planning to travel and visit you? If you are contacted in connection with this and told that the person is stuck at customs and now needs help with money, you may have been the victim of so-called romance fraud.
We regularly receive emails and phone calls from people wondering how to process a payment to help their friend. Please note that Swedish Customs never charges any fees for people or for releasing a person who is ‘stuck in customs’. Our advice is always – do not pay.
How to avoid being scammed
- Avoid clicking on links that come via text message or email if you were not expecting to receive a text message from the alleged sender.
- Never contact an unknown sender directly using the number or email address provided in the message. Find your own contact details for the alleged sender.
- The mention of money should arouse suspicion.
- Never share your payment card details or passwords with anyone who contacts you.
- Never transfer money at the request of someone who contacts you via text message or email if you are not certain.
- Ask yourself the question – do I know for sure who this person or company is?
- Ask someone you trust for advice if you feel you are having difficulty being objective.