Police have issued a warning about a “highly convincing” GST scam after two islanders lost more than £15,000 each to fraudsters.

Scammers are targeting individuals online by falsely claiming they will send high-value goods to Jersey, according to the force.

As part of the scheme, the fraudsters provide fake documents that appear to be from the Jersey Customs and Immigration Service, requesting payment of Goods and Services Tax (GST) before the goods can be released.

The counterfeit paperwork is designed to look official, and misleadingly shows that the GST has already been paid by the scammer.

Victims are then pressured into reimbursing the fraudster directly for the tax before the supposed items are shipped. However, the goods do not exist.

“These documents are highly convincing and are intended to pressure victims into making quick payments,” a police spokesperson said.

The force confirmed that Jersey Customs and Immigration Service will never ask for GST payments through third parties or unofficial channels.

ADVICE…

  • Don’t pay if you receive suspicious customs documents.
  • Verify any requests by contacting Jersey Customs and Immigration Service at RGC@gov.je.
  • Be cautious of unexpected offers involving shipments to Jersey.
  • Never share personal or financial details with strangers.
  • Report suspicious activity to the States of Jersey Police.