Fake parcel delivery text scams

One of the most common scam texts in the UK says a parcel could not be delivered and asks you to pay a small fee. The amount is small on purpose. The real aim is to collect your card details and personal information.

What the message usually says

• "We tried to deliver your parcel but nobody was home."
• "Your parcel is being held. Pay a small redelivery fee."
• "Confirm your address to arrange delivery."

The text includes a link, and the link opens a copy of a real delivery website. It asks for your name, address and card details. Some versions then phone you pretending to be your bank.

How to check

• Ask yourself whether you are actually expecting a parcel. If not, it is almost certainly a scam.
• Look at the link. A real company uses its own website name, not a long or odd address.
• Do not use the link. Open the courier's official app or type its website address yourself, then use your tracking number there.
• If you are expecting a parcel, check the order confirmation from the shop. It will tell you which courier is delivering it.

If you paid or entered card details

Call your bank straight away using the number on the back of your card, or dial 159. Tell them what happened and ask them to stop the card. Then report the text to 7726 and to Action Fraud.

Stay one step ahead

VerovaShield can check the link in the text before you open it, so you can see whether a delivery message is genuine.