Warning Signs to Look Out for in Package Delivery Scams

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, a majority of people turned to online shopping and delivering purchases directly to their home addresses. This rising trend in online shopping and home delivery has made package delivery scams increasingly prevalent, exploiting people's trust in legitimate shipping companies like FedEx, UPS or DHL. These scams often target individuals through text messages or emails, deceiving them into revealing personal information or making financial transactions under false pretenses. Understanding the warning signs associated with these scams is crucial to avoiding potential financial losses and identity theft. 

Package delivery scams typically involve fraudulent communications claiming to be from legitimate shipping companies. Scammers use various tactics to deceive recipients into believing they have a package waiting for delivery, a missed delivery attempt or an outstanding fee that needs to be paid. These messages often include links to fake websites that mimic the appearance of official shipping company websites. The primary goal of these scams is to trick individuals into providing personal information, such as credit card details or to install malicious software on their devices. 

Red Flags to Watch For 

Unsolicited Messages: Receiving unsolicited messages about package deliveries is a common red flag. Legitimate shipping companies typically only send notifications if you have opted in through their official channels. 

Suspicious URLs: Be cautious of URLs in text messages or emails. Scammers often use URLs that mimic legitimate shipping company websites but with slight variations. Hover over links to preview the destination URL and ensure they lead to the official site. 

Requests for Personal Information: Legitimate shipping companies do not ask for sensitive information such as social security numbers, credit card details or passwords via unsolicited messages. If a message requests that information, it is likely a scam. 

Urgency and Threats: Scam messages often create a sense of urgency or threat, stating that failure to respond or act immediately will result in consequences like package return or additional charges. These tactics are designed to pressure you into making hasty decisions. 

Unexpected Payment Requests: Be wary of messages requesting payment for delivery fees, customs charges or taxes unexpectedly. Legitimate shipping companies typically collect such fees at the time of delivery or through official notifications, not via unsolicited messages. 

Preventative Measures 

Verify Through Official Channels: Always verify the authenticity of messages by contacting the shipping company directly using contact information from their official website or customer service numbers. 

Check Sender Addresses: Double check the sender's email address or phone number for slight alterations that mimic official contacts (e.g., "upsdelivery@gmail.com" instead of "@ups.com"). 

Report Suspicious Activity: Report suspected scam messages to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your country's consumer protection agency. This helps authorities quickly act against fraudulent schemes. 

Use Security Software: Ensure your devices have updated security software to protect against malware that may be included in scam messages. 

By being aware of the warning signs associated with package delivery scams, you can protect yourself from falling prey to these fraudulent schemes. Always verify the legitimacy of messages before taking any action and remember that legitimate shipping companies prioritize customer security and would never jeopardize it through unsolicited or suspicious communications. Taking these precautions can help you avoid potential financial losses and identity theft, ensuring a safer online shopping experience.