Courier scams are on the rise, targeting individuals through deceptive messages and phone calls. Recognising these fraudulent tactics can help you stay safe.
Common tactics used by scammers
- Scammers send fake SMS and emails pretending to be from courier services, often including phishing links or malicious downloads
- Fraudsters impersonate courier executives or government officials, claiming a seized parcel contains illegal items and demanding payment to resolve the issue
- Victims receive calls from scammers posing as courier representatives, asking for personal information or payments to release a package
- Scammers create urgency through intimidation, using fear tactics and threats of legal action to pressure victims into quick decisions
How the scam works
- Initial contact: The scam starts with an unsolicited message orphone call from someone claiming to be a courier service representative or a government official
- Fake claims: The scammer falsely informs the victim that a package addressed to them contains illegal items or that their identity has been compromised
- Intimidation and urgency: Using fear tactics, scammers create a sense of urgency by threatening legal action or other serious consequences, forcing the victim to act quickly
- Request for payment or information: Victims are pressured into providing personal information, such as bank details, Debit Card numbers, Aadhaar information or making a payment
- Phishing links or malicious apps: In some cases, scammers send links to phishing websites or ask victims to download malicious apps, compromising their sensitive data
Warning signs to watch out for
- Unsolicited calls or messages about parcels you did not expect
- Requests for upfront payments for delivery or customs clearance
- Demands for personal or financial information over the phone or through unverified links
- Threats of legal action or arrest
How to protect yourself
- Always verify the authenticity of messages or calls claiming to be from courier services or government officials
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages as they may lead to phishing websites or install malware on your device
- Never share sensitive details like account numbers, PINs, or Aadhaar information over the phone or via messages
- If you receive a suspicious message or call, contact your bank or the relevant authorities immediately
Your safety is our priority.
Stay vigilant and together we can combat fraud.
- Call us on our toll free number 1800123 6601 from your registered mobile number
- Email us at report.fraud@list.db.com
- Click here to report fraud
- SMS FRAUD to 561615
- Call 24/7 Phone banking number on 1860 266 6601* and select option 1
*Customers outside India need to dial +91 22 6601 6601. Customers in Mumbai can also call at 6601 6601. Call charges apply