Dealing with Mystery Parcel Scams and Understanding Institutional SMS

The recent wave of mystery parcel scams has caught many off guard. Just like an individual received an SMS on 10/07/2024 from India Post, many others have fallen victim to these deceptive tactics. The message claimed a consignment had been booked, and it was supposedly from Coimbatore. Here, we break down the key steps to take and how to spot such scams.

Spotting the Scam

The news of people being called by customs or ED (Environmental Division) about parcels containing illegal materials that need immediate payment is quite common. Always ignore such SMSs or report them to cyber police. However, if you're skeptical about the legitimacy, here are some steps to follow:

Recall Recent Orders

Try to recall if you ordered something recently, such as Rudraksha from Esha Coimbatore. For instance, the author of this article registered for Rudraksha in March 2024 and received the same SMS mentioned a week ago. When she checked the tracking ID, it stated that the package was booked from Coimbatore, which helped her identify the sender.

Check the Sender Number

Always pay attention to the sender number. If it's an institutional message, the number should start with an alphabet, such as JK-NSELRA. If it's purely a number, it's likely a scam. Additionally, institutional numbers can be bought, so verify them accordingly. Never share any OTPs or open links in the SMS, as these actions can compromise your security.

Verify the Consignment

If you're certain the sender is legitimate, verify the status of your consignment on the official website of India Post. Click here to track your consignment. This can help you confirm if the package has indeed arrived or if there is any discrepancy. If it's simply an error or spam, you can ignore the alert.

Be Aware of Deceptive Tactics

There are new types of scams related to unattended parcels. Scammers may claim that the delivery is locked at a nearby post office and that you need to transfer a small amount to unlock it. They might also claim that the parcel has been delivered but is not, and ask for payment to unlock it. Never fall for these traps. If you receive an SMS claiming the parcel is delivered, you may have received a scam call. Always verify with the post office using the official consignment number.

Conclusion

Scams related to mystery parcels are on the rise, and it's crucial to stay vigilant. By following the steps outlined above, you can protect yourself from these deceptive tactics. If you have received a similar message and are unsure, it's best to consult the cyber police or the official India Post support for guidance.