When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they’ll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Royal Mail scams seem to be on the rise with many customers targeted via text message or email. A fresh warning has been issued asking Britons to watch out.
Royal Mail scams often look convincing and emails can even include official looking logos.
However, it is important for people to thoroughly check a text before acting on it.
Fraudulent messages will often ask people to click on links and enter personal details or make payments.
This is something Royal Mail rarely asks for so such demands should be approached with caution.
Posting today, advice.scot stated there are scam messages currently going around.
It tweeted: “Remember – @RoyalMail #SCAM text messages are still doing the rounds requesting payment for ‘dispatch fees’.
“Avoid clicking on links, don’t enter card details and report suspected scams and suspicious activity at http://scamwatch.scot.”
The official body also shared a post from Trading Standards Scotland which offered further advice.
It said: “There are still lots of reports of scam Royal Mail texts which ask you to tap a link to pay a dispatch fee.
“The Royal Mail DO NOT collect shipping costs by email/text.
“Never tap links in unexpected texts – they often lead to scam sites designed to gather your details.”
Trading Standards said there are a number of known scams circulating across the country just now.
Many of these ask for payment which is something Royal Mail do not do over text.
It shared examples of known messages so customers can see what they should look out for.
One fraudulent text said: “Royal Mail: Your package has a £2.99 shipping fee, to pay this now visit [link].
“Actions will be taken if you do not pay this fee.”
“Your Royal Mail parcel is waiting for delivery,” another scam read.
“Please confirm the settlement of 2,99 (GBP) on the following link.”
A third known fake text had a similar message. It said: “Royal Mail: Your package has a £2.99 unpaid shipping fee, pay now at [link].
“If not paid a return to send will be requested.”
Many of the examples shared used urgent language which could make customers feel like they need to pay quickly.
However, taking a step back to consider the message could help them identify whether it is legitimate or not.
Royal Mail often updates its website with examples of all the scams it is aware of.
The website states: “These are some typical examples of scams that look like they’re sent by Royal Mail, but are in fact fraud or phishing scams.
“Please don’t click on any of the links in these emails and be vigilant if you receive a communication which you aren’t sure about.”
Source: Read Full Article
