A new wave of fraudulent activities is targeting unsuspecting individuals by exploiting their fears of deportation or involvement in criminal activities. These scammers impersonate U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials, using intimidation tactics to extract money and sensitive personal information from victims. Authorities warn the public to remain vigilant and immediately disconnect any suspicious calls.

Law enforcement representatives emphasize that legitimate CBP personnel do not engage in such practices. According to Rod Hudson, the Acting Director of Field Operations for CBP Houston, the agency does not resort to phone calls when investigating illegal activities. Instead, they rely on established protocols to gather evidence and communicate with potential suspects or victims. The scammers often claim that a drug shipment has been intercepted under the victim's name, pressuring them to provide details or face immediate legal consequences. However, these claims are entirely fabricated.

Raising awareness about these scams is crucial to protecting individuals from falling prey to such schemes. Experts advise staying informed about common tactics used by fraudsters and reporting any suspicious activity promptly. By understanding that genuine law enforcement agencies will never demand personal identification or monetary payments over the phone, people can safeguard themselves against exploitation. Public cooperation plays a vital role in combating these deceptive practices, fostering a safer community environment where trust in official entities remains intact.