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Bengaluru residents and travelers, beware! The Customs department at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has issued a high alert following the detection of a sophisticated fraud racket.
Fraudsters are impersonating Customs officials to extort money from unsuspecting citizens, particularly those with international connections or expecting parcels/gifts from abroad.
This scam exploits fear and urgency, targeting vulnerable individuals through phone calls, social media, and messaging apps.
As Bengaluru continues to be a global hub with heavy air traffic, such frauds pose a significant risk during the holiday season when international travel and shipments peak.
How the Scam Works (Modus Operandi)
Fraudsters typically:
- Befriend victims online (e.g., via social media, dating apps, or random contacts) or make cold calls.
- Claim that a relative, friend, or the victim themselves arriving from abroad has been detained at the airport by Customs.
- Allege issues like undeclared goods, excess baggage, or suspicious items requiring “immediate payment” for release.
- Demand money transfers to personal bank accounts, UPI IDs, or wallets to “resolve” the matter quickly.
- Once payment is made, they disappear, cutting off all communication.
These scammers often sound professional, using fake names, badge numbers, or even spoofed caller IDs to appear legitimate.
Key Facts from Customs Officials
- Customs NEVER demands money over phone calls or personal transfers.
- No passenger is harassed or detained solely for non-payment of duty without proper legal procedures.
- All official Customs processes at the airport are conducted in person, under CCTV surveillance, and as per law.
- Payments for duties (if any) are made only through authorized counters at the airport or official government portals, with proper receipts issued.
How to Protect Yourself: Essential Tips for Bengalureans
- Ignore unsolicited calls/messages claiming detention or parcel issues at the airport.
- Never transfer money to unknown accounts based on phone demands.
- Verify independently: If concerned about a relative’s arrival, contact the airline directly or visit the airport in person.
- Do not share personal details like bank info, Aadhaar, or OTPs with callers claiming to be officials.
- Report immediately:
- File a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).
- Call Bengaluru Police helpline (112) or visit the nearest station.
- Inform Customs via official channels if needed.
- Educate family members, especially elders and those with overseas connections, about this scam.
This alert comes amid rising cyber frauds in Bengaluru, the tech capital where digital transactions are commonplace, making it easier for scammers to operate. Staying vigilant can prevent financial loss and unnecessary stress.
Technocrat Magazine urges all readers to spread this awareness—share with friends, family, and community groups.
Your caution today can save someone tomorrow.Stay safe, Bengaluru!
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