We’re all familiar with that impatient anticipation whilst awaiting a delivery’s arrival. Whether it’s that special occasion outfit or the household essential you’ve been coveting — the clock starts ticking the instant you hit ‘order’.
So when a text message appears from ‘Royal Mail’ stating your package requires a £2 customs charge, you likely won’t hesitate. A swift tap, input your card information, and it’s sorted. Or so you believe, reported the Daily Record. However, that seemingly harmless message has just provided fraudsters with everything required to drain your bank account and take your identity.
These cons, known as ‘phantom parcel’ scams, are deceiving Britons daily.
“These dangerous scams prey on our expectation of deliveries,” cautioned an OddsMonkey spokesperson.
“When you’re waiting for parcels, especially during busy shopping periods, your guard is naturally down.”
The trickery operates as follows: criminals dispatch texts, emails, or WhatsApp messages masquerading as major delivery firms like Royal Mail, DPD, Evri, or DHL.
They assert that a modest charge, typically between £1 and £3, is needed for redelivery or customs processing.
Victims are subsequently redirected to bogus websites that bear uncanny resemblance to authentic courier platforms, featuring official logos and corporate branding.
The timing renders these scams devastatingly potent. With continuous deliveries throughout the year, millions of us are genuinely anticipating packages at any moment. Moreover, the small sums being requested often seem insignificant enough that individuals pay without a second thought.
The threat of delayed or returned parcels creates a sense of urgency that bypasses our usual caution.
“It’s not just about the small fee they’re asking for,” the expert elaborates.
“Once they have your card details and personal information, they can make much larger purchases or even steal your identity for more serious fraud.”
Here’s how to shield yourself from this scam:
Never click on links in unexpected parcel messages, even if you are anticipating deliveries. Instead, navigate directly to the courier’s official website and check your tracking there.
Examine the sender meticulously — scam messages frequently originate from dubious email addresses like ‘royalmailsupport@delivery-info.co’ rather than official domains.
If in doubt, ring the courier using the phone number from their official website, not any number provided in the message.
Bear in mind that legitimate courier companies will never request payment via text or email links for standard deliveries or customs fees on domestic parcels.
If you receive a suspicious message, forward scam texts to 7726 and phishing emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. If you’ve already entered your details, get in touch with your bank immediately to report potential fraud.
“The best defence is awareness,” added the OddsMonkey spokesperson.
“If you’re expecting a parcel and get a message asking for payment, take a moment to verify it directly with the courier. Those few extra minutes could save you hundreds of pounds and a major headache.”
Other Articles
No Comment! Be the first one.