ILLINOIS — The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is sounding the alarm over a growing scam trend targeting Illinois consumers: fraudulent messages about tariffs and customs fees that turn out to be phishing attempts.
The warning comes from the BBB’s Rockford Regional Office, which reports a rise in scam emails, text messages, and social media ads claiming consumers must pay extra charges due to tariffs before receiving a package they ordered.
“These are scams. Legitimate tariff-related fees are the responsibility of the importing company — not the consumer,” said Dennis Horton, the Rockford BBB Director, in a June 6 report from WROK 1440 AM.
Common Tactics in Tariff Scams
Scammers are leveraging public confusion around tariffs to trick people into clicking malicious links or making payments. According to the BBB, here’s what to watch for:
-
Fake Package Notifications: Messages claim you owe a tariff fee on a package in transit.
-
Tariff Relief Offers: Fraudulent texts or emails offering reimbursement or “tariff relief.”
-
Urgent Payment Demands: Pressure tactics warning of penalties if you don’t pay immediately.
-
Government Impersonation: Scammers pose as customs agents, USPS, or other officials.
Real-Life Victims: “My Package Is Stuck In Customs…”
One consumer told the BBB Scam Tracker,
“After 2 months of not receiving my product, the company kept telling me it was delayed at customs due to tariffs. I’ve asked for a refund — now they don’t reply. I think it’s fake.”
This is a classic imposter scam, says Horton, and it plays on urgency, unfamiliarity with international trade, and fear of losing an already-paid-for item.
Quick Tips To Avoid Tariff Scams
The BBB and cybersecurity experts recommend the following precautions:
-
Never click on links in suspicious messages about customs or tariffs.
-
Verify tracking numbers directly on a retailer’s or shipping carrier’s website.
-
Report phishing to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
-
Ignore payment requests for international tariffs — retailers, not consumers, pay those fees.
If you’re unsure, contact the BBB or the shipping company directly through official channels.
Have you received strange emails or texts about package delays due to tariffs? Did anyone ask you to pay extra for customs clearance?
Share your experience in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com to help protect others!
