FAQ's: The Forwarded Package Scam

Not all scammers are after the big bucks. In one case, the innkeeper reported accepting a reservation with a credit card number, from a couple who claimed to be vacationing in Europe and on their way to the U.S. The prospective guests mentioned that the wife was pregnant. They asked the innkeeper to take delivery of a digital camera on their behalf - after the camera arrived, the husband called to report that the wife had been in a car accident, and that they needed to cancel. The husband arranged for the innkeepers to ship the camera to them overseas, even sending labels. By chance the innkeeper missed the pickup, and then heard from the seller of the camera that it was purchased on a stolen credit card number.

Another innkeeper reports, "We were scammed by a foreigner who purchased a camera from a US or foreign company, had had it sent to us (where he had reserved a guest room legit) then a medical emergency caused him to cancel (we refunded deposit) and sent us prepaid Fed Ex label to forward the camera to him. We did as instructed then got bills for IMPORT DUTIES!! We were not alone, many more innkeepers got taken by this scam for cameras and other high ticket items. The purchasers avoided the import taxes they would have to pay in Britain or other European country and all it took was a little time."

     http://www.naag.org/ag/full_ag_table.php

look up your state banking department here:

     http://www.csbs.org/links/state_links.asp

     http://www.occ.treas.gov

Don't fall for the false lure of a well-heeled or well-known guest who needs a special favor involving money or expensive merchandise. Smart innkeepers establish and stick to safe and verifiable payment policies, and rarely get burned!