Fake Shipping Notification Scam

Fake shipping notification scams impersonate well-known courier services or retailers with messages claiming a parcel is awaiting delivery or has a problem requiring action. The notification—delivered via SMS, email, or messaging app—contains a link to a convincing fake tracking page. Victims are then asked to pay a small 'redelivery fee,' verify their address, or confirm card details, all of which go to the fraudster.

Some campaigns are not focused on financial data but deliver malware through a link or attachment. Mobile variants (smishing) are particularly effective because small screens make URL inspection difficult and people frequently expect genuine parcel notifications.

Consumers should navigate directly to a courier's official website and enter their tracking number manually rather than clicking links in unsolicited messages. Legitimate couriers almost never require payment via a link sent in an unsolicited text, and any request for card details to release a parcel should be treated as fraudulent.