Massive Shipment of Fake Stamps Seized by Authorities in Chicago

U.S. Customs and Border Protection intercepts a massive shipment of counterfeit Forever stamps from China, potentially saving the U.S. Postal Service over $118,000 in lost revenue.

Key Takeaways

CBP seized over 161,000 counterfeit U.S. Forever stamps from China at Chicago’s International Mail Branch.
The fake stamps, if sold as genuine, would have been valued at more than $118,000.
CBP officers identified the stamps as counterfeit due to low invoice value, routing, and concealment efforts.
The interception highlights the increasing sophistication of counterfeit operations and the need for consumer vigilance.
Authentic U.S. postage stamps are produced solely by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving & Printing.

CBP’s Crucial Interception

In a significant blow to counterfeiters, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at Chicago’s International Mail Branch recently intercepted a shipment containing over 161,000 counterfeit U.S. Forever stamps. The fake stamps, originating from China, were discovered in eight separate shipments, violating trademark laws and potentially defrauding the U.S. Postal Service of more than $118,000 in revenue.

The seizure underscores the vigilance and expertise of CBP officers in identifying and stopping fraudulent goods from entering the country. LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, director of Field Operations-Chicago, praised the officers’ quick thinking and experience that led to this successful interception stating “Our officers and specialists are some of the most highly trained in the nation, and their level of expertise is evident with these seizures. CBP officers were able to identify these very realistic counterfeits and stop them from reaching their destinations.”

161 fake forever stamps seized in Chicago. Interesting https://t.co/nr8xTMKbuO

— LadyD (@LadyD66158293) February 16, 2025

Sophisticated Counterfeiting Techniques

The counterfeit stamps were described as “very realistic,” highlighting the increasing sophistication of modern counterfeiting operations. CBP officers were able to identify the fakes due to suspicious elements such as low invoice values, unusual routing, and attempts to conceal the merchandise.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex nature of counterfeiting schemes and the potential risks they pose to consumers and the U.S. economy. As counterfeit stamp quality continues to improve, it becomes increasingly difficult for the average consumer to distinguish between genuine and fake stamps.

Seasonal Spike in Counterfeit Activity

CBP officials noted that there is typically an uptick in counterfeit stamp activity around holidays, particularly during high-volume card-sending periods like Valentine’s Day. This seasonal pattern underscores the need for heightened awareness among consumers, especially when purchasing stamps from non-official sources.

The CBP’s interception of these counterfeit stamps not only prevents financial losses to the U.S. Postal Service but also protects unsuspecting consumers from unknowingly participating in illegal activities. It’s crucial for the public to understand that authentic U.S. postage stamps are exclusively produced by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving & Printing.

Protecting American Consumers and Economy

This significant seizure of counterfeit stamps serves as a testament to the CBP’s commitment to protecting American consumers and the economy from fraudulent goods. By intercepting these fake stamps, the CBP has not only prevented potential financial losses but also upheld the integrity of the U.S. postal system.

As counterfeiters continue to refine their techniques, it becomes increasingly important for consumers to remain vigilant and purchase stamps only from authorized retailers or the U.S. Postal Service directly. The CBP’s ongoing efforts to combat counterfeiting play a crucial role in safeguarding American interests and maintaining the trust in our postal services.