Beware of “Phantom Parcel” Scams

We all know the feeling of waiting for a parcel to arrive — whether it’s an outfit for a special occasion or a household essential. Fraudsters are exploiting that anticipation with a dangerous trick known as the phantom parcel scam.

How the scam works

• Criminals send fake texts, emails, or WhatsApp messages pretending to be Royal Mail, DPD, Evri, DHL and other couriers.

• The message claims a small fee (£1–£3) is needed for redelivery or customs.

• Victims are directed to a bogus website that looks just like the real courier site.

• Once you enter card and personal details, fraudsters can drain your bank account or even commit identity theft.

Why it’s so effective

• Many of us are genuinely expecting parcels throughout the year.

• The small payment request seems harmless, so people pay without hesitation.

• The urgency (“your parcel will be returned unless you pay”) lowers caution.

How to protect yourself

✅ Never click on links in unexpected parcel messages. Check tracking directly on the courier’s official website.

✅ Check the sender address carefully – scams often come from odd emails like delivery-info.co instead of official domains.

✅ Don’t use phone numbers in the message – only use official contact details from the courier’s website.

✅ Remember: couriers will never ask for payments by text/email for normal deliveries.

✅ Report scams: forward texts to 7726 (free) and emails to report@phishing.gov.uk.

✅ If you’ve already entered details – contact your bank immediately.

Key Message

The best defence is awareness. If you get a message about a parcel asking for payment, pause and verify it directly with the courier. Those few extra minutes could save you money, stress, and even your identity.

For more details about our Anti-Scam Campaign – Do Not Get Scammed, visit our website: www.intraconspectum.org

You can also support us directly through our fundraising page: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/qr/8WOkkKMW?utm_campaign=sharemodal&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=shortlink

Together we can achieve more.

“Remember! Scam is theatre. The fraudster is an actor: one day a banker, another – a wealthy widower looking for love or someone who wants to leave you an inheritance, and yet another – a government official threatening you with a fine. The costumes change, but the play script always remains the same – it’s about your money and your data.” — Intra Conspectum CIC, Don’t Get Scammed Campaign 2025

🛑 Stop. 🤔 Think. ✔️ Check.

Don’t let yourself be written into their play as the victim.