Warning after two people scammed out of £15k each

Two people in Jersey have been scammed out of more than £15,000 each, police have said.

States of Jersey Police are warning islanders to be on alert as scammers were contacting individuals online claiming to send "high-value goods".

Police said the scammers are providing what appears to be official Jersey Customs and Immigration Service (JCIS) paperwork, requesting goods and services tax (GST) payments before goods could be released.

Police said the documents were "highly convincing and intended to pressure victims into making quick payments".

"The fake paperwork is designed to look as though the fraudster has already paid the GST," police said.

"The victim is then asked to reimburse the fraudster directly before the goods are shipped, but the goods don't exist."

Police advised islanders that the JCIS would not request GST payments via third parties or through unofficial channels.

It said islanders who received suspicious customs documents or GST payment requests should not pay and contact Jersey Customs directly.

Police added: "Be cautious of unsolicited offers involving goods being shipped to Jersey. Never share personal or financial information with unknown individuals.

"Report any suspicious activity to the States of Jersey Police."

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