Nigeria Customs alerts consumers to fake online vehicle auctions

*The Nigeria Customs Service cautions consumers against a fraudulent social media account currently circulating online, falsely conducting vehicle auctions in the West African country

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

In regard to a rising wave of fraudulent vehicle auction schemes in the digital space, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has warned consumers against fraudulent vehicle auction schemes currently circulating on the social media.

ConsumerConnect reports the NCS particularly cautioned the general public against falling victim to impersonators posing as officials of the Service.

NCC unveils eligibility criteria as telecoms consumers’ compensation for poor services begins

The Service also noted that the public alert has become necessary in view of the emergence of a fake account, advertising cut-price vehicle sales, falsely linked to Customs operations.

It is equally noted that the development has raised new concerns within the maritime and port ecosystem, where legitimate auction processes for seized vehicles remain a critical component of cargo enforcement and revenue generation in the economy.

The NCS, in a recent statement, clarified that the claims being circulated online are entirely false, and do not originate from the Service.

The statement noted: “The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been drawn to a fraudulent social media account currently circulating online, falsely conducting vehicle auctions.”

The NCS emphasised that the officer whose image is being used in the viral posts has no connection to the fraudulent activity in any way.

It further stated: “The officer whose image is being used is not involved in any car sales on social media, and the account is an act of impersonation intended to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.”

According to the Service, findings indicated that the fake Instagram account, operating under the name “J.O ATTAH AUTOS” with the handle @nigeriacustom001, falsely presents itself as an authorised dealer of auctioned vehicles.

The statement as well noted the page advertises multiple cars, including foreign-used models such as Mercedes-Benz, Toyota Camry, and Range Rover, with listed prices and contact details—creating a deceptive impression of legitimacy.

The NCS, however, highlighted the account’s fraudulent nature with a bold “Scam Alert” overlay on the image that was shared online.

The Service, therefore, warned Nigerian consumers to exercise caution, and avoid engaging with unverified platforms for vehicle auctions.

It said: “Members of the public are strongly advised to disregard such messages, refrain from making any payments, and report the account for further action.”

Restating its commitment to transparency, the Nigeria Customs Service urged stakeholders and the public to rely solely on its verified communication channels for accurate information regarding auctions and other activities.

It also listed its official platforms to include Facebook (Nigeria Customs Service), Instagram (@customsng), TikTok (@customsng), Threads (@customsng), X (@customsng), and its corporate Web site.

Kindly Share This Story