Courier Scam
What is a Courier Scam?
A Courier Scam is a cyber fraud in which criminals impersonate representatives of courier companies, customs officials, or law enforcement agencies to deceive victims into believing that a parcel sent in their name contains illegal or prohibited items.
Victims typically receive a phone call claiming that a parcel has been intercepted because it allegedly contains narcotic substances, forged documents, passports, electronic devices, or other contraband. The call is then often transferred to individuals posing as police officers or officials from investigative agencies, who accuse the victim of involvement in criminal activities such as money laundering or drug trafficking.
Using fear, urgency, and intimidation, fraudsters pressure victims into revealing personal information, installing remote access applications, or transferring money to so-called “safe” or “verification” accounts. In many cases, this scam evolves into what is commonly known as a Digital Arrest Scam.
Legitimate courier companies do not demand money, ask for banking credentials, or transfer calls to law enforcement agencies for verification of parcels.
Warning Signs
Be cautious if someone:
- Claims that a parcel in your name contains illegal goods or prohibited items.
- States that your Aadhaar, PAN, or mobile number has been used to send suspicious parcels.
- Transfers your call to individuals claiming to be police officers, customs officials, or investigators.
- Pressures you to keep the matter confidential.
- Demands immediate payment to avoid arrest or legal action.
- Requests your banking details, OTPs, UPI PIN, or asks you to install remote access software.
What Should You Do?
If you receive such a call:
- Remain calm and do not panic.
- Do not disclose any personal or financial information.
- Do not transfer money under any circumstances.
- Verify the status of any shipment directly through the official website or customer care number of the courier company.
- Disconnect the call if you suspect fraud.
- Report the incident by calling 1930 or through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
If you have already transferred money, immediately contact your bank, preserve all evidence (including call recordings, messages, transaction details, and screenshots), and report the matter without delay.
How to Protect Yourself
- Remember that genuine courier companies communicate shipment updates through official tracking systems and do not threaten arrest.
- Never make payments to “release” or “verify” a parcel based solely on a phone call.
- Independently verify any suspicious communication using the courier company’s official contact details.
- Be cautious of callers who create panic or insist that immediate action is required.
- Discuss suspicious calls with a trusted family member or legal professional before taking any action.
Remember
Courier scams rely on fear and urgency rather than genuine legal authority. If someone claims that a parcel in your name has been intercepted, verify the information independently before sharing personal information or transferring money.