Is it normal for a courier to request a copy of my ID before releasing a parcel?
Genuine couriers do not request ID copies sent by email or messaging app. Signature confirmation is the standard — anything beyond this is suspicious.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Standard courier delivery requires only a signature or a safe-place instruction for confirmation. Some premium or regulated deliveries may require a government-issued ID to be shown in person — but no legitimate courier asks you to photograph your passport or driving licence and send it via email, WhatsApp, or a third-party link before releasing a package. This tactic is used to harvest identity documents for identity theft. If you receive such a request, contact the courier's official customer service number (found on their official website) to verify whether the request is genuine before providing anything.
Common red flags
- Request to send a photo of ID via email, WhatsApp, or a link
- Communication comes from an unknown number or unofficial email
- Parcel tracking information is vague or unverifiable
- Request arrives without a context of a known order
What to do now
- Do not send copies of identity documents to an unverified contact
- Call the courier using a number from their official website
- If the request turns out to be genuine, show ID in person — do not send a photo
- Report suspicious messages to the courier's fraud team
Frequently asked questions
When is showing ID to a courier legitimate?
Some restricted deliveries (alcohol, age-restricted items, certain financial documents) require age verification in person. The courier will never need to photograph or keep your ID.