Customs Warns Of Fake Social Media Vehicle Auction Account

In a move to protect unsuspecting Nigerians from falling victim to cybercriminals, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has raised an alarm over the proliferation of fake social media accounts. These fraudulent platforms, often operating on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, falsely claim to be authorized portals for the auctioning of impounded vehicles.

In an official statement released on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the NCS National Public Relations Officer emphasized that the Service does not conduct its auction processes through private social media handles or third-party agents. The warning follows several reports from citizens who were allegedly defrauded of significant sums after being promised "cheap" seized SUVs and sedans.

"The Nigeria Customs Service wishes to reiterate that all official auctions are conducted strictly through our verified Electronic Auction (e-Auction) portal," the statement read. "Any individual or group asking for payments into private bank accounts for 'auction fees' or 'clearance' is a fraudster. We urge the public to be vigilant and verify any information through our official website or local Area Commands."

[Image: Official Nigeria Customs Service Logo and a warning "BEWARE OF SCAMS"]

The Service further clarified that the e-Auction process is transparent and designed to give every Nigerian an equal opportunity to bid. To participate, interested persons must possess a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN) and register through the official government-secured link. Security agencies are reportedly tracking the operators of these scam accounts, and several arrests have already been made in connection with online impersonation. The NCS advises the public to report any suspicious auction advertisements to the nearest Customs office or through their verified digital complaint channels.