Photo: tolgart / E+ / Getty Images
- The Better Business Bureau warns that a new twist on an old scam has fraudsters using tariff excuses to delay or avoid paying refund requests.
- The scam starts with victims trying to buy something from a legitimate-looking business on social media. After making a purchase, victims wait for products that never arrive. When victims follow up, scammers blame customs, tariffs, or even lie about new international laws delaying delivery.
- Victims never see a refund or are coerced into paying additional fees to get a product they'll never receive.
- The BBB says look for these red flags when shopping online: the seller claims your package is delayed due to tariffs or customs; you’re asked to pay more money after placing your order; tracking numbers are fake or show delivery to the wrong location, and customer service becomes unresponsive or uses poor grammar.