Beware of delivery scams

Technology

Fraudsters have started to take advantage of the ever-increasing volume of home deliveries through different delivery scams. Usually, these will take the form of fake emails or texts saying that a parcel is waiting for delivery, asking you to click or open a link or an attachment.

How it works

You may receive a fake communication through any channel (email, SMS or call), telling you that there is an issue with your delivery such as:

  • Redelivery
  • Address problem
  • Incorrect payment details
  • A payment is required for customs or shipping

The sender name or email address could include the company’s name and in the case of emails, feature their logo. Sometimes the email or text could include personal details, such as your name.

How could I be scammed?

Usually, the communication will contain a link to a website urging you to submit confidential information or take a payment directly. If you input your personal information you may end up being targeted in new scams which can take on many forms.

Fraudsters can use information from the deep and dark web or social media to make scams seem genuine or as supplementary information.

How to spot these scams

  • Check your delivery details by going to the relevant company’s website directly
  • Be skeptical when you receive shipment information from companies you have not ordered anything from
  • Check the links look legitimate (i.e. take you to the company’s website)
  • Check that the sender email address belongs to the company you are using

Frequent characteristics

  • Lack of personal information – you may be addressed as ‘Dear Customer’ or ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ (but this isn’t always the case)
  • Lack of information about the item
  • Obscure links that urge you to click on them
  • A vague email address or phone number
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