Parcel and Courier Scams: Fake Delivery and "Customs" Fees

Parcel scams use the fact that many of us are expecting a delivery. A message claims your parcel is "held", needs "redelivery", or is stuck in customs and a small fee must be paid through a link. The real aim is your payment-card details or to plant a malicious app.

How the scam works

You receive an SMS or chat message with a tracking-style link. It opens a fake courier page asking for a small "release" or "redelivery" fee and your card details. Some links install an app that captures your banking logins. The amount seems tiny, which is exactly why people pay without thinking.

Warning signs

• A delivery message for a parcel you are not expecting.
• A link asking for payment of a small fee to "release" a parcel.
• Requests for card details, OTP/TAC, or to install an app.
• Sender numbers and web addresses that do not match the real courier.

How to protect yourself

• Never pay courier fees through a link in a message — check directly on the courier's official app or website.
• Genuine couriers do not collect customs duty via random SMS links.
• Do not install apps sent by SMS or chat.
• When unsure, contact the courier using its official customer service line.

If you have paid or installed something

Uninstall any app you were told to add, call your bank to secure your account, change your passwords, and call 997.