Contraband in Starfield is an excellent way to earn extra, and quite substantial, money. There's just one problem – every time you enter a planet, the ship undergoes scanning, which detects the contraband and exposes the main character to serious risks.

Where to find contraband

You can find contraband on board enemy ships during space flights and captures, at outposts or from other smugglers.

Moreover, you don't necessarily have to take the suspicious cargo with you. You can leave it in its original place, avoiding unnecessary danger. Proceed at your own risk.

As soon as the contraband is in your inventory, you might get caught by scanners when approaching United Colonies stations.

How to deceive the scanner

To bypass the scanner check, adhere to the following conditions:

1. Make sure your ship has a Shielded Capacity for cargo;
2. Head to the Crimson Fleet station and buy a jammer from the trader Jasmine "Jazz" Durand.

A shielded cargo hold can also be purchased at the Crimson Fleet station.

Note that no protection system offers a 100% guarantee. When approaching a United Colonies station, the probability of safely transporting the cargo will be displayed. When all conditions are met, it will be high, but again, not 100%.

Whom you can sell the contraband to

If you've successfully smuggled the contraband, head to the Trade Authority on the planet Volii-Alpha.

On the outskirts of the city, you'll meet Coleman Lang, who will happily buy the contraband goods and won't ask unnecessary questions. He will also tell you about the task board in the Volii Hotel, where you can take additional smuggling missions.