Does UPS ask for your SSN on international packages?

[fullofsecrets]

My friend from Canada was sending me an iPod touch but I got a call from UPS this morning telling me I need to give them my ssn before they could send the package. Skeptical, I called UPS International and they told me US Customs required me to give them my ssn but I'm really skeptical about doing so. I don't really want to give that information out over the phone, or at all really.

Has anyone else had some experience with this or knows what to do?

[eunoia]

I'd call back and ask them WHY they need your number and HOW they intend to use it. You should also inquire as to what will happen if you refuse to share your SSN, and if all else fails request information on which (if any) laws require you to share it. You may also ask if you have alternative options.

[FlyingTrue]

I ship and receive international packages fairly often where I work. UPS is supposed to give you the tracking number of a package on the phone if there is a problem related to the shipment so you can confirm the legitimacy of the call. Was this number given by the so-called representative?

Also from their website:

Please be advised that UPS does not request payments, personal information, financial information, account numbers, IDs, passwords, or copies of invoices in an unsolicited manner through e-mail, mail, phone, or fax in exchange for the transportation of goods or services. UPS accepts no responsibility for any costs or charges incurred inappropriately as a result of fraudulent activity.

So this was likely a hoax call.

And no action was ever required on my part for the receipt of an international package other than the actual taking of the package upon arrival of the delivery man.