Reporting Suspected Fraud, Diversion and Other Illegal Activity

Submit a Tip Online

TTB investigates alcohol and tobacco diversion, which refers to the movement of alcohol and tobacco products into domestic commerce without the payment of taxes. Federal law also prohibits the production of alcohol and tobacco products without the necessary permits issued by TTB. Manufacturing alcohol or tobacco products (such as moonshine) without a permit and without payment of applicable taxes is one example of diversion. Other examples of alcohol and tobacco diversion include: manufacture of product in excess of quantity reported to TTB, domestic distribution of products intended for export, smuggled products, and distribution of counterfeit products.

If you suspect alcohol or tobacco diversion, or otherwise believe a TTB permittee is not operating in compliance with Federal requirements, please submit a tip online.

Activities not Under TTB's Jurisdiction

• If you suspect illegal sales of cigarettes, such as sales to or by minors, are being conducted or if you wish to report smoking in establishments in states or localities where such activities are prohibited, please contact the appropriate state and/or local agency.
• If you suspect illegal activities are occurring which do NOT involve alcohol beverage and/or tobacco products, such as drug sales or prostitution, contact your local law enforcement agency.
• If you have information about service or sale of alcohol beverages to minors, contact the appropriate state and/ or local agency.
• If you have information about illicit activities involving firearms, explosives, and/or arson contact the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and your local law enforcement agency.

Additional Resources

• TTB's Responsibilities
• TTB and IRS Whistleblower Program
• We Don't Serve Teens
• stopalcoholabuse.gov
• Bioterrorism Act of 2002
• Import Beverage Alcohol for Personal Use
• Home Brewers
• Tobacco Internet Sales/Duty Free
• Consumer Complaints