BOC cautions public anew on ‘love scams’

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) under Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno again cautioned the public to be wary of various online scams that claimed of parcels being held at Customs and asking the victim to send money for their release.

The modus has been described by authorities as the ‘Love Scam’ that victimized those frequenting online dating platforms.

After gaining trust, the scammer would propose sending precious ‘gifts’ to the victim but would then request for money as the package is being “held” at Customs due to unpaid fees and taxes.

To make the scam believable, another person would get in touch with the victim claiming to be a Customs officer.

Commissioner Nepomuceno cautioned the public to be wary of the modus and to remain on alert especially if money is being requested to be sent to e-money applications or personal bank accounts.

He also urged the public to immediately report the incident to the appropriate authorities.

The Customs Chief can also be reached thru his ‘Isumbong Kay Commissioner’ platform (https://isumbongkaycomm.customs.gov.ph/).