Counterfeit U.S. Forever Stamps: A Threat to Mail Security and the Economy
Seizing a Massive Haul: 161,000 Fake Stamps Intercepted in Chicago
On a recent Thursday, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the seizure of a staggering 161,860 counterfeit U.S. Forever stamps in Chicago. Anti-Terrorism Contraband Enforcement officers at the Chicago International Mail Branch intercepted eight shipments containing the illicit goods, which violated trademark laws.
Origin and Value of the Counterfeit Stamps
All the seized parcels originated from China. If genuine, the stamps would have been valued at over $118,000. However, suspicions arose about the authenticity of the stamps due to several factors:
- Low invoice value: The stamps were declared with suspiciously low values.
- Routing: The packages took unusual routes, raising red flags for potential counterfeiting.
- Concealment efforts: Extensive measures were taken to hide the stamps within the shipments.
Deteriorating Stamp Quality, Ongoing Threat
Although the quality of the seized counterfeit stamps was relatively poor, CBP warns that advancements in counterfeiting are producing increasingly realistic fakes. Most consumers may struggle to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit stamps.
Impacts on Mail Security and Economic Integrity
LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, director of Field Operations-Chicago, underscored the significance of preventing counterfeit stamps from entering circulation. She emphasized that counterfeiters prioritize profit over the integrity of the U.S. postal system and the economy.
Sutton-Burke lauded the expertise of CBP officers and specialists in identifying and seizing these counterfeits, highlighting their role in safeguarding the postal service and the nation’s financial stability.
Seasonal Surge in Counterfeiting Attempts
Authorities have observed an uptick in counterfeit U.S. Postal Service postage stamp production around holidays, particularly high-volume card-sending occasions such as Valentine’s Day. CBP advises the public to be vigilant during these periods.
Authenticating Genuine Stamps
To ensure the authenticity of your postage stamps, CBP recommends purchasing them directly from the U.S. Postal Service or authorized resellers. Authentic stamps are produced at the U.S. Bureau of Engraving & Printing in the United States, guaranteeing their genuineness.
Reporting Suspicious Activities
Members of the public who encounter suspicious postage stamps or shipments are urged to report them to CBP or the U.S. Postal Service. Your vigilance can assist in safeguarding the integrity of the mail system and the economy.
