Customs Administration of the Ministry of Finance stated that customs authorities frequently receive inquiries from the public regarding cases in which overseas acquaintances allegedly send items to Taiwan, but the recipients are told that Taiwan Customs has imposed high import duties or significant fines. They are then asked to remit payment on behalf of the sender to avoid confiscation of the goods. These are fraudulent schemes. The public is urged to remain vigilant against such tactics and to refrain from transferring funds to unknown private accounts to prevent financial loss.
Customs Administration further explained that, in these fraud cases, the so－called ＂foreign friends＂ are often individuals whom victims have met through social media platforms （such as Facebook, Instagram, or Telegram） and have never met in person. These individuals typically build a relationship with the victim and then claim they intend to visit Taiwan or send gifts. They may assert that luggage or gifts have been shipped, but are being held at Customs due to their high value （such as gold, jewelry, or antiques）, requiring the payment of substantial import duties. Alternatively, they may claim the items have been detained for violating anti－money laundering regulations （such as involving U.S. dollars, euros, or other negotiable securities）, and that fines must be paid. Victims are then asked to transfer money to designated private accounts to facilitate the release of the goods. Although these fraudulent methods follow a consistent pattern, some individuals continue to fall victim, warranting heightened caution.
Customs Administration reiterates that Taiwan is governed by the rule of law. When Customs detains goods, an official detention receipt will always be issued. If a fine is imposed, the penalty notice will be lawfully delivered to the concerned party. The public should not trust notifications received via phone calls or messaging applications. Furthermore, all duties and fines must be paid through financial institutions directly into designated national treasury accounts. If there are any doubts, individuals are encouraged to contact Customs Administration or relevant customs offices directly for verification. Under no circumstances should funds be transferred to unknown private accounts.
Phone:02－2550－5500 ext. 2521