Bank of Ireland Warns Customers of Customs Charge Scams Ahead of July 1 EU Tax Change

Bank of Ireland has warned customers to be vigilant of scam messages requesting customs charge payments, anticipating a surge in fraud attempts. This alert precedes a major EU tax system change effective July 1, where duty will apply to all purchases under €150 entering Ireland from outside the EU. Each item will incur a €3 charge plus VAT.

While most large online retailers will apply charges at the point of sale, smaller retailers may not, leaving Irish shoppers to face bills upon delivery. An Post estimates that 95% of online sellers will deduct charges at checkout, but approximately five million packages annually will still be subject to these charges.

Nicola Sadlier, Bank of Ireland’s head of fraud protection, advises a «zero trust» approach. Customers should question unexpected contact, even from trusted organizations, and never rely on phone numbers or links in messages. Instead, contact sellers or organizations directly via official websites. An Post and Revenue will never send payment links for customs charges via text message.

Sadlier also advocates for an SMS Scam Filter in Ireland, warning that without it, Irish consumers are increasingly exposed to SMS fraud. She urges prioritizing legislation for its swift introduction.