Confidential Manifest Info Accidentially Released by CBP Due to ACE Transition Problems, Says Law Firm

The CBP transition from the Automated Commercial System to the Automated Commercial Environment has resulted in the accidental release of confidential manifest information, according to international trade law firm Grunfeld, Desiderio, Lebowitz, Silverman & Klestadt (GDLSK). The firm said on its Website that CBP is aware of the problem and is working to fix it. CBP didn't return a request for comment.

"It has recently come to our attention that CBP inadvertently revealed the names of importers and exporters that requested and were granted manifest confidentiality," said the post on the GDLSK site. "CBP is aware of this issue and hopes to resolve it soon."

The firm advised the trade community to be cognizant of possible information breaches and to check to make sure confidential information hasn't been released. "Until this issue is fully resolved, we recommend that importers and exporters that have been granted manifest confidentiality periodically review trade reports in order to ensure that no breaches are occurring," said the firm. "Alternatively, we can periodically run searches on your behalf. Should you discover that confidential manifest information is being published, please contact our office immediately and we will work with CBP to resolve the issue."