Beware of the Courier Scam: One Call Could Empty Your Bank Account!

Cybercriminals are using a dangerous new trick called the “Courier Scam” to steal money from unsuspecting people. Here's how the scam works and how you can stay safe.

What is the Courier Scam?

In the age of digital fraud, scammers are constantly finding new ways to deceive people, and the courier scam is their latest trap. It typically begins with a random call or video call from someone claiming to be a delivery executive from a reputed courier company, such as FedEx or DHL.

This call isn't about a real delivery — it's a scam designed to make you panic. The scammer will claim that a suspicious package under your name has been intercepted and seized, often at an airport or by customs officials. They then escalate the situation by involving so-called "law enforcement officers" through Skype or WhatsApp video calls, pretending to be from government agencies like the Narcotics Control Bureau or Mumbai Police.

How the Scam Unfolds: A Real-Life Example

A recent incident involving a PhD student from the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru reveals how sophisticated this scam has become.

The student received a call from someone impersonating a FedEx employee, claiming a parcel addressed to him contained banned substances. The scammer then transferred the call to another person posing as a Narcotics Division officer based in Mumbai. Through Skype video calls, the student was subjected to a fake investigation, during which his statement was recorded.

Under the guise of verification, the scammers asked for his bank account details and then falsely accused him of being involved in drug trafficking (specifically MDMA). To "prove his innocence" and avoid arrest, the student was coerced into transferring ₹1,34,650 to a different bank account — money he never recovered.

This isn't an isolated case. Similar courier scam complaints have been registered across India, targeting students, professionals, and even senior citizens.

Common Tactics Used in the Courier Scam

• Fake Authority: Scammers pretend to be employees of trusted courier services or law enforcement agencies.

• Panic Triggers: They accuse victims of involvement in illegal activities such as drug trafficking or money laundering.

• Video Calls for Legitimacy: Skype or WhatsApp video calls are used to make the fraud look official.

• Data Extraction: Victims are tricked into revealing personal details like Aadhaar numbers, PAN, bank account numbers, and OTPs.

• Money Transfer Demands: Under threat of arrest or legal action, victims are told to transfer money for "case closure" or "legal verification."

How to Protect Yourself from Courier Scams

Here are some practical steps to avoid falling victim to this scam:

🔒 1. Ignore Suspicious Courier Calls

If you receive a call about an unknown package or delivery, do not engage. Legitimate courier companies will never ask for personal data or payment over the phone.

🔐 2. Never Share Personal Details

Avoid sharing your Aadhaar, PAN, bank details, or OTP with unknown callers — even if they sound official or mention legal consequences.

🚫 3. Don't Click on Unknown Links

Scammers may send malicious links claiming to be tracking pages or legal notices. Never click on them.

⚖️ 4. Real Companies Don’t Threaten

Courier firms and government authorities will never threaten arrest or demand money over the phone. Any such behavior is a clear red flag.

📞 5. Report Immediately

If you suspect a scam or have already fallen victim, contact the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or report the incident online at cybercrime.gov.in.

Final Thoughts

As online scams evolve, staying alert and informed is your best defense. The courier scam preys on fear, urgency, and trust in official-sounding voices. Don’t fall for it. Remember, no genuine organization will ever ask for your sensitive information or demand payments through threatening calls.

Stay cautious. Stay safe. And always verify before you trust.