Royal Mail is warning people across the UK to think twice if an unexpected red slip of paper is posted through their letterbox. In most cases, these are designed to be helpful - but some could pose risks.
Royal Mail serves roughly 32 million homes and businesses across the UK with deliveries made six days a week, resulting in millions of letters and parcels going through its system. Because it is the largest delivery provider in the UK, data consistently shows it is the most frequently impersonated brand.
Fake cards and fraudulent QR codes
It is believed that fraudsters drop cards through letterboxes that look almost identical to genuine Royal Mail delivery notices. Newer versions feature fraudulent QR codes or links asking you to pay a small 'redelivery' or 'customs' fee.
It takes those who scan the code to a fake website that looks like the official Royal Mail portal. Instead of helping to arrange a delivery, this site quietly steals bank details once they are entered.
Royal Mail's official warning
In a new TikTok video, Royal Mail asks whether viewers have recently received one of the company's updated 'Something For You' cards through their letterbox. While most are genuine, some of these messages have been used to trick unsuspecting people into handing over personal details.
Sharing a warning, the social media post reads: "Scam texts, emails, websites and cards can look convincing. They often claim there’s an issue with your parcel and pressure you to act fast. Before you click a link, scan a QR code or make a payment, take a moment to check for the warning signs."
Royal Mail confirms that genuine 'Something For You' cards are left after a postie's delivery attempt. They always include a QR code to help you manage the next steps of getting your delivery.
The service said: "If you're unsure, don't click any links or scan any QR codes. Instead, go directly to our website or app where you can enter your reference number to track your item and find the latest delivery information."
Know the difference and report scams
Royal Mail claims that there are times when people may need to pay a fee for an item, such as if the postage was incorrect, but this will result in a separate grey-coloured 'fee to pay card'. A standard red slip will never request payment. The grey cards will have instructions to pay at a physical Post Office branch, rather than making demands for digital card payments via text, email links, or QR codes.
Royal Mail adds: "If you think you have been given a suspicious 'Something For You' card, take a photo of it and email it to reportascam@royalmail.com. If you clicked a link, shared personal information or made a payment, report it to Action Fraud immediately."
People in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland can make a report online or by calling 0300 123 2040. Scotland takes fraud reports via the 101 line. Citizen's Advice adds: "Do not feel embarrassed about reporting a scam. Scammers are clever, and scams can happen to anyone. Reporting a scam helps track down and stop scammers. This prevents other people from being scammed."
