On April 6, 2025, the Washington Examiner published an article highlighting the significant enforcement challenges the U.S. government faces in implementing President Trump’s newly announced tariffs. The article featured commentary from firm-founding attorney Stephen A. Teller, who offered insight into how these sweeping trade changes could lead to a rise in customs fraud—and why whistleblowers may become critical in helping the government respond.
Read the full article here:
U.S. Customs Braces for ‘Huge Task’ of Enforcing Trump Tariffs and Finding Cheats – Washington Examiner
The Intersection of Trade Policy and Whistleblower Law
As a False Claims Act attorney focused on customs fraud and whistleblower claims, Steve Teller has been closely monitoring how tariff policy shifts can create openings for fraud schemes. In the article, he explains why the current environment may create a perfect storm of incentives for companies to misclassify imports, undervalue goods, or disguise their country of origin to avoid paying lawful tariffs.
Steve shared that he has helped the government recover millions in lost tariff revenue and believes that more fraud is likely unless enforcement efforts are significantly bolstered. His quote in the article underscores a key reality: when enforcement struggles to keep pace with regulatory changes, whistleblowers become even more important.
“The incentive for cheating is going to go up substantially… There’s probably going to be more of that kind of fraud.”
— Stephen A. Teller, quoted in the Washington Examiner
If you’ve witnessed customs fraud, reporting it could make a meaningful difference—and may qualify you for a financial reward. However, under the False Claims Act, only the first person to come forward with credible information is typically eligible for a share of the government’s recovery. This means that the sooner you report suspected fraud, the greater the chances of securing a substantial reward.
Call (206) 324-8969 today – or email Mr. Teller through this website – for a free, confidential consultation with whistleblower attorney Stephen A. Teller. Take the first step to protect the public—and potentially yourself.
Why This Matters: Increased Tariffs, Increased Risk
With reciprocal tariffs impacting 86 countries and a baseline 10% tariff added to imports from nearly every nation, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency is tasked with overseeing an immense volume of shipments. Even with improved automation through its ACE system, questions remain about whether there will be enough oversight to catch intentional misclassification or fraudulent declarations.
For companies importing goods into the U.S., compliance risks have never been higher. And for insiders who know that fraud is taking place, the decision to report can have a direct impact on trade integrity and public revenue.
FAQ: Customs Fraud, Whistleblower Laws, and the False Claims Act
What is customs fraud?
Customs fraud occurs when an importer intentionally provides false information to avoid paying duties or taxes. Common tactics include undervaluing goods, misclassifying products under incorrect tariff categories, or misrepresenting the country of origin.
How can whistleblowers help stop customs fraud?
Individuals who work inside importing or manufacturing companies often have direct knowledge of fraudulent schemes. Under the False Claims Act, whistleblowers who report fraud against the government may be entitled to a portion of the recovery. This includes fraud involving tariff evasion and customs duties.
A big concern is retaliation, and Stephen Teller’s 30 years of employment law experience are an important resource in knowing how to oppose fraud while minimizing the chance of being hurt by an employer who wants to commit fraud.
What kinds of companies are most likely to commit tariff fraud?
Any company that imports goods into the U.S. is subject to customs regulations. In particular, businesses that rely heavily on raw materials, electronics, textiles, or overseas manufacturing partners may face greater temptation to manipulate classification or valuation.
Is the U.S. government doing enough to prevent tariff fraud?
While CBP maintains that it is prepared to enforce the new tariffs, Steve Teller has raised concerns that enforcement capacity may lag behind the complexity and volume of shipments. He believes whistleblowers will play an increasingly important role in helping the government identify fraud that would otherwise go undetected.
Who can be a whistleblower to stop tariff fraud?
Anyone with appropriate knowledge can be eligible for a reward and stop the fraud. Importing companies who want to play by the rules may know their competitors are cheating, observant individuals may see imports on shelves or the internet that reflect avoided tariffs, or honest insiders at companies that are trying to cheat the system may know of fraud. The issue is less about how you know, and more about what you know and whether the government will be able to investigate and prove the fraud.
What should I do if I suspect a company is avoiding tariffs illegally?
If you are aware of a company engaging in customs fraud or mislabeling imports, contact a whistleblower attorney to learn about your rights and options. You may be able to file a qui tam lawsuit under the False Claims Act, and your identity can be protected.
Steve Teller’s Track Record in Customs Fraud Recovery
Steve Teller has helped recover millions of dollars in improperly withheld duties and taxes for the federal government through whistleblower litigation. His experience in this area makes him a valuable voice in the national conversation on customs enforcement and trade compliance.
His appearance in the Washington Examiner is part of a broader mission to ensure that the public understands how trade fraud happens and how private individuals can take action.
Schedule A Free Consultation: Report Customs Fraud or Learn Your Legal Options
If you have information about a company avoiding tariffs through false declarations or mislabeling imports, you may be eligible to file a whistleblower claim under the False Claims Act. These cases can recover substantial sums for the government—and whistleblowers may receive a percentage of the recovery.
Call Stephen A. Teller at (206) 324-8969 – or email through this website – for a free and confidential consultation.
Based in Seattle, Steve represents whistleblowers nationwide and offers personalized guidance on navigating customs fraud claims. Whether you’re ready to move forward or just want to understand your options, Steve can help you take the next step.
Don’t wait. Call now or reach out online to protect your rights and help expose fraud.