NCS raises alarm over fake customs auction scam online
Maureen Aguta
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a strong warning to the public over a fraudulent social media account falsely claiming to conduct vehicle auctions in the name of the Service, describing the scheme as a calculated attempt to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
In a statement made available on Monday, the NCS clarified that the purported auction claims circulating online are entirely false and did not originate from the agency.
The Service stressed that it does not carry out vehicle sales through unofficial social media platforms, urging the public to exercise caution.
According to the statement, the image of a Customs officer currently being used to promote the fake auction is part of an impersonation scheme.
The NCS categorically stated that the officer in question has no involvement in any such activity and is being misrepresented by fraudsters to lend credibility to the scam.
“The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service has been drawn to a fraudulent social media account currently circulating online, falsely conducting vehicle auctions. This claim is false and did not originate from the Service,” the statement noted.
The agency further warned that the perpetrators are exploiting the public’s interest in acquiring auctioned vehicles at discounted rates, a tactic commonly used by online scammers to lure victims into making payments for non-existent goods.
Reiterating its commitment to transparency and due process, the NCS emphasized that all legitimate auctions conducted by the Service follow established procedures and are publicly announced through official channels.
The Service advised members of the public to disregard any unsolicited messages or advertisements promoting vehicle sales on social media under its name. It also cautioned against making payments to individuals or accounts linked to such claims.
“Members of the public are strongly advised to refrain from engaging with these fraudulent accounts, avoid making payments, and promptly report such pages for investigation and necessary action,” the statement added.
The development comes amid growing concerns over the rise in cyber-enabled financial scams in Nigeria, with fraudsters increasingly impersonating government institutions to exploit public trust.
The NCS assured that it is working with relevant authorities to track and bring those behind the fake account to justice, while urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and rely only on verified information from official government sources.