Customs today clarified that it has never arranged a public auction by means of a social media platform and website to sell confiscated items and reminded the public to be alert to avoid being scammed.

The department made the clarification as it noticed earlier that two Facebook dedicated pages under the names of "Matiny" and "Yimi-shop" published posts with hyperlinks of two websites registered in the US and Canada, which falsely claimed that Customs was making arrangements for selling confiscated items by means of a public auction.

One of the websites even made an untrue claim that proceeds from the auction would be used for charity purposes.

Customs said the two dedicated pages conveyed false information that conspired to mislead members of the public.

It also suspected intellectual property right infringement and noted that there may be offences under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance and Copyright Ordinance of Hong Kong.

Noting that it has already requested the social media platform's operator to remove the messages and hyperlinks as soon as possible, the department said it will also contact the International Criminal Police Organization for follow-up action.

Customs reiterated that confiscated items will be handled strictly in accordance with the established guidelines upon the completion of legal procedures.

Those suitable for placing on public auction will be co-ordinated and handled exclusively by the relevant government department in Hong Kong. Customs never works with any external individuals or bodies to make a public auction.

The department also stressed that it has all along been concerned with illegal online sales activities.

While striving to combat unfair trade practices and infringing activities on websites, it also maintains close co-operation with law enforcement authorities of other countries and regions to combat cross-boundary infringing activities and protect the rights of consumers and legitimate traders.

Customs emphasised that a follow-up investigation will be conducted if the infringing activities involve local people.

If the relevant platform is located outside Hong Kong but is involved in local criminal infringing activities, the department will refer the cases to law enforcement authorities outside the city for joint follow-up actions.

Consumers are reminded to stay vigilant when shopping online and buy products at reputable shops. They should not purchase items of unknown sources at suspicious websites or social media platforms and should contact trademark owners or traders for enquiries in case of doubts.

Call 2545 6182 or send an email to Customs to report suspected unfair trade practices or infringing activities.