The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is issuing this announcement to raise awareness of criminal actors exploiting the public and the shipping industry by invoking fake COVID-19-related regulations and fees.
The FBI is aware of incidents involving individuals or companies referencing fake “newly enacted” COVID-19 shipping laws, regulations, or insurance requirements with the purpose of charging additional fees before the delivery of a product.
Examples of this criminal activity include demanding fraudulent COVID-19 insurance fees after the purchase for the delivery of live pets from online U.S. websites. An additional example includes criminal actors fraudulently collecting “refundable” maritime insurance fees, citing fake COVID-19 laws.
The following are indicators of possible scams or fraudulent activity:
- The reference to “new” laws or regulations resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and refusal to provide additional information;
- Requiring additional charges or fees before delivery of a product;
- Repeatedly providing excuses for delivery delays, including citing COVID-19 laws, regulations, or requirements;
- Requesting money be paid to an unknown third party (e.g., warehouse, insurance company, or shipping company);
- Stating that any required fees, payments, or deposits will be refunded or reimbursed later; and
- Inability to make direct contact with shipper or manufacturer by phone or email (disconnected lines, lack of response, etc.).
- Never give out personal or financial information to a person or company you do not know and trust;
- Always verify the information of manufacturers, shipping companies, and service providers before making payments;
- Be wary of unsolicited messages claiming that a delivery is being held until payment is received, especially if you or your business have not placed any orders or expect to receive any deliveries; and
- Research and verify that any laws or shipping requirements related to COVID-19 are legitimate before sending payment.
