Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Customs has warned customers against fraudulent electronic messages and notices impersonating the authority and using official-looking language to deceive recipients into believing they are legitimate customs communications.The authority said one of the circulating messages carries the title “Official Customs Hold Notice – Customs Tariff Classification Required (Harmonised System)”.Abu Dhabi Customs stressed that these messages are fraudulent and are not issued by the authority, urging customers to exercise caution when receiving emails or notices related to shipments, customs procedures or payment requests.The authority advised customers to verify the source of any such communication through official channels before taking any action.According to Abu Dhabi Customs, the fraudulent messages contain details designed to appear authentic, including reference numbers, dates and times, as well as claims that a shipment has been placed on hold pending customs tariff classification and fee payments.The authority warned that such messages may be intended to obtain personal, commercial or banking information or induce recipients to carry out unauthorised transactions.Abu Dhabi Customs emphasised that all official customs procedures and transactions are conducted through approved systems and official digital platforms.Customers were urged not to:Respond to suspicious messagesClick on links contained within such messagesOpen attachments from untrusted sourcesShare personal, business or banking informationMake payments based on unauthorised requestsThe authority said protecting customer data and ensuring the security of digital transactions remain key priorities within its customs services ecosystem.Abu Dhabi Customs also called on customers who receive suspicious messages to report them through official channels and avoid sharing any information with the sender.The authority reaffirmed its ongoing efforts to raise awareness of safe digital practices and protect customers from fraud and impersonation attempts, helping ensure a secure and trusted customs experience.
