Fake Delivery Texts on Telegram
How parcel delivery phishing scams spread via Telegram messages, using channel forwarding and bot-generated links to harvest card details from recipients.
Part of: Fake Delivery Texts
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Telegram has become a significant vector for fake delivery text scams because its forwarding mechanics allow a single fraudulent message to propagate across thousands of channels and group chats within minutes. Unlike SMS phishing, Telegram delivery scams can embed clickable links, inline keyboards, and bot-generated pages that appear polished and credible.
The platform's large user base in Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and increasingly in the UK and Australia provides fraudulent operators with access to large audiences without the per-message cost of SMS campaigns.
How this scam works on Telegram
A Telegram message — often forwarded from a legitimate-looking channel or sent by a compromised account — notifies the recipient that a parcel is held due to an unpaid customs fee or incorrect address. A button or link leads to a convincing courier website replica requesting card details for a small payment.
Bot-operated Telegram accounts send personalised-looking messages using the recipient's first name, sourced from data breaches, to increase credibility. The phishing page captures card number, expiry, CVV, and sometimes 3D Secure SMS codes in real time.
Some variants use Telegram bots that walk victims through a multi-step 'delivery rescheduling' form, collecting progressively more sensitive data before presenting a final payment page.
Common red flags
- Forwarded Telegram message claiming a parcel is held pending a small customs payment
- Link in a Telegram message leading to a courier website with an unusual domain
- Bot asking for card details through a multi-step inline keyboard sequence
- Message using your first name despite coming from an unknown number or account
- Courier website that the link resolves to was registered within the last few months
How to protect yourself
- Track parcels only through the official courier app or website accessed directly
- Legitimate courier companies do not collect payments through Telegram bots
- Never enter card details on a page reached through a Telegram link
- Forward suspicious Telegram delivery links to your national cybercrime reporting service
- Enable Telegram privacy settings to restrict who can add you to groups
How to report it
- Report the Telegram channel or user to Telegram at telegram.org/support
- Report to your national cybercrime authority
- Contact your bank immediately if card details were entered
Frequently asked questions
How do I report a Telegram scam bot?
Open the bot or channel profile, tap the three-dot menu, and select 'Report.' Choose the most relevant reason — usually 'Scam' or 'Fraud.' You can also forward the scam message to @notoscam on Telegram. Reporting to your national cybercrime authority with the Telegram link and any page URL is also valuable.