News Release

Prairie Region

CBSA warns about fraudulent vehicle import scam

Calgary, Alberta, August 1, 2013 — The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is warning Canadians about a possible scam involving vehicle purchases.

In multiple reports, an individual posing as a salesperson from a luxury car dealership in Utah tries to coerce Canadian customers into paying for a vehicle by phone or online. Customers are forwarded what appear to be emails from the CBSA to the dealer asking for an advance bill of sale and receipt prior to importation. The e-mails, on a CBSA letterhead, show a North Portal, Saskatchewan office phone number.

Please be advised that both the e-mails and phone number are fraudulent and are in no way connected to the CBSA. There is no reason to believe the individual in question is a legitimate car salesperson and will deliver on the purchase.

The CBSA requires importers to present a title and bill of sale or other contract document (lease agreement) at time of importation only. Verifications for purchases are not conducted over the phone or by e-mail prior to arrival. For more information on vehicle importing regulations, please visit http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/bsf5048-eng.html.

If you know anything about the possible scam, please call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre toll free at 1-888-495-8501.

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For further information
Lisa White
CBSA – Regional Communications
403-292-4011
Lisa.white@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca

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