Expecting a Package? - Phony Alert!
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way many people shop, with online purchasing increasing steadily. More shopping online means more package deliveries for consumers.
With the increase in deliveries, we have received complaints about delivery notification scam calls and texts, proving once again that fraudsters are following the trends and adapting their scams to steal your money and information. These messages often include a "tracking link" that you are urged to click in order to update your delivery or payment preferences.
While these messages often look or sound legitimate, you should never click a link or call back the number from an unexpected delivery notice. Instead, contact the delivery service or seller directly using a verified number or website.
Scammers often use the names and logos of familiar organisations to get under your guard.
What do package tracking scams aim to get from you?
There are several ways in which these phishing and smishing scams work. Scammers may impersonate tracking companies and send messages or emails with links designed to download malware onto your device. If you click on these links, the attacker may receive basic information like your device information, approximate location, and other data. Scammers may also get you to visit certain links and ask for personal or financial information. They may even ask you to send payment in exchange for early package delivery. The primary goal of delivery scams is to steal your data or money.
Here are some ways to spot a bogus email:
It tells you to click on a link or download an attachment
It urges you to take immediate action
It asks you to “re-confirm” personal or financial information
another ways is if you hover over the link in the email, it won’t show the official website of the supposed sender
Here are the following steps you can consider as prevention measures:
Do not click on links provided in unsolicited emails or text messages
Always verify the authenticity of the information with the official website or sources, even if you are expecting the delivery of a parcel
Always check the transaction details before approving any transactions
Never disclose your personal or internet banking details and OTP to anyone
Report any fraudulent credit or debit card charges to your bank and cancel your card immediately
If you receive suspicious email, text or phone messages, go to the delivery carrier's website directly or use the retailer's tracking tools to verify the sender's identity and avoid these scams. Remember - a parcel or a courier company would not ask you to pay a redelivery or unpaid shipping fee online so do not click on any links inviting or instructing you to do so.
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