Parcel Scam
Criminals pretend to be trusted delivery companies and pressure you to click a fake link, pay a small fee, or confirm personal details to release a parcel.
Fake delivery alert
Your parcel is waiting
Pay £1.99 redelivery fee to prevent return to sender.
What is a parcel scam?
A parcel scam is when criminals pretend to be a courier or postal service. The message usually says there is a missed delivery, unpaid postage, customs duty, or an address problem.
The goal is to push you onto a fake website where you may be asked for card details, banking information, passwords, security codes, or personal information.
ScamAdvisory rule
If you didn’t request it, you shouldn’t expect it.
Common parcel scam messages
Stop before you click
Parcel scams are designed to feel normal, especially when you are already expecting a delivery.
Risk level
High
Urgent pressure
The message says you must act quickly or the parcel will be returned.
Suspicious link
The link does not clearly match the courier’s official website.
Unexpected fee
You are asked to pay a small redelivery, postage, or customs fee.
Vague details
There is no genuine tracking number, order reference, or retailer information.
Sensitive information
The page asks for card details, bank details, passwords, or security codes.
Unexpected parcel
You were not expecting a delivery, but the message wants you to take action.
Do not click. Verify directly.
Go directly to the courier’s official website or app. Do not use links from the message.
Check the tracking number from the retailer or original order confirmation.
Forward suspicious text messages to 7726 .
Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk .
If you entered payment details, contact your bank immediately using the number on your bank card or banking app.
ScamAdvisory
Protect yourself before you trust the message.
Parcel scams work because they arrive at ordinary moments. Pause, verify, and use official channels before entering any details.