As former President Donald Trump pushes for a return to sweeping tariffs — including a proposed 60% levy on Chinese imports — financial experts are warning of unintended consequences. Among them? A surge in scam activity targeting both consumers and businesses.
Tariffs may aim to protect domestic industries, but they also disrupt supply chains, drive up prices, and create uncertainty, fertile ground for fraudsters to exploit. According to cybersecurity and finance experts, the current economic climate is a “perfect storm” for scams, with opportunists using tariff-related confusion as a smokescreen for deception.
Here are three red flags to watch for:
🚩 1. “Tariff Reimbursement” or Customs Scam Emails
Fraudsters are increasingly posing as government agencies or shipping companies, offering to help “refund” or “adjust” tariffs for a small processing fee. These scams often arrive via phishing emails or fake websites asking for business credentials or payment information.
Tip: No legitimate government agency will ask for payment or personal data via email. Always verify claims directly through official channels.
🚩 2. Fake Import/Export Brokers
As tariffs push businesses to find alternative suppliers, scammers are setting up fake brokerage firms that promise lower fees, expedited customs clearance, or tariff-free deals. They may even spoof reputable companies to gain trust.
Tip: Be wary of cold outreach and verify the legitimacy of any new supplier or broker. Look for verified reviews, a valid business address, and government registration.
🚩 3. “Too Good to Be True” Product Deals
Some scammers are targeting consumers with unusually cheap online goods, claiming they’re “pre-tariff” inventory or “direct from China.” These often lead to non-delivery, counterfeit products, or identity theft.
Tip: Avoid sketchy websites or offers that seem out of step with market pricing. Use secure payment platforms and check for HTTPS in the website URL.
Why Tariffs Open the Door to Scams
When markets get unpredictable, people look for shortcuts — and scammers are always ready to step in. Tariffs increase costs, delay shipments, and shake consumer confidence. That chaos provides ideal conditions for deception, especially when international trade is involved.
As the political conversation around tariffs heats up heading into the next U.S. election cycle, it’s crucial to stay vigilant — both as a consumer and as a business operator.
Final Thoughts
Tariffs may come and go, but scams thrive on confusion and change. Whether you’re managing inventory or shopping online, now is the time to double down on security practices.
Stay informed. Verify sources. And if something feels off — it probably is.
