MSGID: 1:396/45.0 ee2dd6f2
CHRS: IBMPC 2
Hello All.

June 11, 2020
UNCLASSIFIED
Alert Number
I-061120-PSA
Questions regarding this PSA should be directed to
your local FBI Field Office.

               Implementation of Fraudulent COVID-19 Shipping and
                      Insurance Fees by Criminal Actors

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.).

The following are best practices to avoid becoming a victim of a scam or
fraudulent activity:
    #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.


If you believe you are the victim of an Internet scam or cyber crime, or
to report suspicious activity, please visit the FBI's Internet
Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

Best regards,
Marc

--- timEd/2 1.10.y2k+
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