8,183 Fraud Complaints at Customs, Online Shopping Most Prevalent

The Directorate General of Customs and Excise under the Ministry of Finance has recorded 8,183 fraud complaints throughout 2025. This figure represents a 27.42% increase compared to 2024, which had 5,939 complaints. Of the total complaints in 2025, 5,161 cases are related to online shopping scams, a 33.6% rise from 3,427 cases in the previous year.

One commonly reported modus operandi involves perpetrators contacting victims via text messages, claiming that a shipped package lacks legal documentation. “Verify the accuracy of information through official Customs channels and report via the #AmanBersama platform,” stated Budi Prasetiyo, Head of the Subdirectorate of Public Relations and Outreach at Customs and Excise, in an official statement on Friday, 3 April 2026.

According to Budi, perpetrators frequently use technical terms such as excise labels, tax documents, and references to legal articles to pressure victims. The aim is to create panic and make the victim follow the perpetrator’s instructions.

Customs and Excise reminds the public of several signs of scams impersonating the agency. First, perpetrators usually use personal numbers or unverified instant messaging accounts that are not official. Second, messages are delivered in a pressuring or threatening tone, such as threats of criminal charges, fines, or arrests.

Third, victims are asked to take immediate actions, such as contacting a specific number, sending personal data, or making payments. Fourth, the information provided is often unclear and difficult to verify.

Budi advises the public to apply the Stop, Check, and Report principle: stop communication upon receiving suspicious messages, verify the information through official channels, and report suspected fraud for follow-up action. Information and complaints can be accessed through the #AmanBersama channel on the official Customs website.