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Mexican Officials Warn of Rising Identity Theft in Cross-Border Customs Payments

Identity theft and digital fraud are creating significant vulnerabilities in U.S.-Mexico cross-border freight operations, Mexican trade officials cautioned this week. Criminals are impersonating legitimate companies and customs brokers to intercept payments tied to international shipments, according to leaders of COMCE Noreste, the Mexican Council for Foreign Trade's Northeast chapter. In reported cases, fraudsters have stolen identities to pose as both importers and customs agents, redirecting electronic payments intended for legitimate customs agencies. Thieves create replica internet domains, impersonate executives and notify shippers that banking details have changed. The scheme exploits the time-sensitive nature of cross-border trade. Urgent requests for payment to release cargo or avoid storage fees pressure treasury employees to authorize transfers without verification. Advance payments to customs brokers—covering handling, storage, pre-validation and transportation—represent particular targets for fraud.