Package delivery scams refer to fraudulent schemes that aim to steal money or personal information from unsuspecting individuals who receive notifications about the delivery of a package they never ordered or expected.
These scams have become increasingly prevalent in recent years, especially with the surge in online shopping and the increase in package deliveries. They can be carried out in various ways, but the common denominator is that they all involve fake emails or text messages claiming to be from reputable shipping companies, such as FedEx, UPS, or DHL, that urge recipients to take action to avoid the package from being returned or delivered to the wrong address.
How Package Delivery Scams Work
The most common type of package delivery scam involves receiving an email or text message that appears to be from a legitimate shipping company. The message typically states that the recipient’s package is on its way and provides a tracking number, but also mentions that there is a problem with the delivery. This could be a problem with the address, a missed delivery, or a delay in the delivery due to some other reason. The message then asks the recipient to click on a link to resolve the issue and provide personal information, such as a credit card number, to pay for shipping or customs fees. The link in the message leads to a fake website that looks like the real website of the shipping company but is designed to steal personal information.
Another type of package delivery scam involves a phone call from someone claiming to be a representative of the shipping company. The caller may ask for the recipient’s personal information, such as their name, address, and credit card number, to pay for a missed delivery or shipping fees. The caller may also try to convince the recipient to download a remote access tool, which will give the scammer access to the recipient’s computer and personal information.
A third type of package delivery scam involves receiving a package that you did not order. The package may contain an item of low value, such as a cheap toy or an empty box, and a letter asking the recipient to pay for the item or face legal consequences. This is a form of extortion, and the recipient should not pay the fees or provide any personal information.
How to Prevent Falling Victim to Package Delivery Scams
Here are some tips to help you avoid falling victim to a package delivery scam:
Do not click on links in emails or text messages from unknown sources. If you receive a message about a package delivery, go to the shipping company’s website directly and enter the tracking number to check on the status of your delivery.
Be cautious of phone calls from people claiming to be from a shipping company. If you receive a call about a package delivery, hang up and call the shipping company directly to verify the information.
Do not provide personal information, such as your name, address, or credit card number, to anyone who contacts you about a package delivery. Shipping companies do not ask for personal information over the phone or in emails.
If you receive a package that you did not order, do not pay any fees or provide personal information. Contact the shipping company and the sender to report the fraud and return the package.
Keep your personal information secure. Do not share personal information, such as your social security number or credit card information, with anyone you do not know or trust.
Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers often use fake package deliveries as a way