UK shoppers are being warned about a surge in 'phantom parcel' scams, where criminals send fake messages pretending to be from delivery companies like Royal Mail, DPD, Evri, or DHL. The scam typically demands a small fee of £1 to £3 for redelivery or customs clearance, directing victims to fake websites that mimic official courier sites.
According to OddsMonkey, these scams exploit the fact that many people are expecting deliveries, especially during busy shopping periods. The small requested amounts often seem insignificant, while threats of delayed or returned parcels create urgency that bypasses usual caution.
Once victims enter their card details on the fake sites, scammers can drain bank accounts or commit identity fraud. Tech experts urge shoppers never to click links in unexpected parcel messages, even if expecting deliveries. Instead, they should go directly to the courier's official website to check tracking.
Official courier companies will never ask for payment via text or email links for standard deliveries or customs fees on domestic parcels. Suspicious messages should be forwarded to 7726 (texts) or report@phishing.gov.uk (emails). Anyone who has entered details should contact their bank immediately.
