Parcel scams involve scammers tricking victims into believing they have a package coming their way. They do this by sending fake texts or emails pretending to be from a delivery company, claiming there's an issue with the delivery due to incorrect or incomplete addresses.
Usually, scammers will ask you to click a link to reschedule the delivery, but instead, you will be taken to fake websites resembling real delivery service sites. Then, the scammers will try to deceive you into giving personal information like credit card details or login credentials. In some cases, the scammers may claim that there are extra fees or tax charges where payment is required to get the package. They will instruct you to make payment using unconventional methods like wire transfers, gift cards or cryptocurrency.
Scammers also take advantage of the online shopping trend by sending unexpected packages with Cash on Delivery (COD) to random addresses by relying on people forgetting or being confused about recent purchases, so you would just pay to avoid the trouble.
Sample of parcel scam messages:
Things to keep in mind:
Watch out for unexpected calls, emails and text messages claiming to be from delivery services.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links sent through SMS or messaging services, as they might collect your information or download malware to your device.
Keep track on your orders through your shopping platform or courier service directly.
Ensure its authenticity by directly contacting the delivery service through their official website.
Keep an eye on your online purchase history and expected deliveries. This helps you notice any strange Cash on Delivery (COD) packages that arrive out of the blue.
Do not pay for unsolicited packages. If you get a COD package you didn't order, do not accept or pay for it. Tell the delivery person to send it back to the sender.
Use safe payment methods. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards or cryptocurrency for package fees. Stick to secure and traceable payment methods.
Rest assured that CelcomDigi is actively taking measures to ensure our customers do not fall prey to such scams.