SMS fraud is booming. Every day, thousands of consumers receive misleading messages claiming to come from delivery companies such as Colissimo, Chronopost or DHL. These malicious messages aim to steal your personal and financial data.
In this article, find out how these scams work, the signs to identify them, and above all, how to protect yourself effectively against them.
1. Understanding the SMS Fake Delivery Scam
1.1 How does this scam work?
Cybercriminals send SMS messages pretending to be from popular delivery services. These messages indicate an urgent problem, such as :
- A parcel awaiting payment for customs fees.
- A blocked delivery requiring further information.
- A refund linked to an order.
Among the most frequent messages are: “hello our deliveryman was unable to deliver yesterday morning, please choose a new time slot or relay point via: this site”.
or even
“Hello, this is the deliveryman your package did not fit in the mailbox thank you choose a relay point on: this site”
1.2. Why are these scams so effective?
Legitimate appearance: The messages perfectly mimic the style of delivery companies.
Emergency created: They play on the fear of losing a parcel or incurring additional costs.
Broad target: With the rise of online shopping, many people are waiting for packages, making them ideal targets. This scam claims more victims at the end of the year and during the holiday season.
In 2023, more than 50% of phishing attempts in France came from fake SMS messages linked to delivery services.
2. What are the dangers of these scams?
2.1. Theft of personal data
Fraudulent links redirect you to sites that collect your personal information (name, address, telephone number, etc.).
2.2. Financial risks
By providing your bank details, fraudsters can make direct debits or fraudulent purchases.
2.3. Malware propagation
Clicking on a link can lead to malware being downloaded, compromising your device and your data.
Also Read : 5 essential tips to protect your online payments in 2025..
Scam Info ANTAI: How to spot fake SMS fines and avoid the scam.
3. How to recognize a fraudulent SMS?
3.1 Suspect shipper
- Short or unknown telephone numbers.
- E-mail addresses containing unusual characters.
3.2. Dubious links
- Always check the URL before clicking. Is this the real URL of the site? Search on google.
- Official websites have secure (https://) and recognizable addresses.
3.3. Language errors
LSpelling and grammatical errors in messages are often signs of fraud.
4. What should you do if you receive a suspicious message?
4.1. Immediate best practices
- Never click on the link. (this link may contain a virus)
- Delete the message without interacting (don't reply, otherwise they'll see that this phone number is active and send you more scams).
- If you're expecting a parcel, contact the delivery service directly via their official website.
4.2. Report the scam
- Use platforms such as 33700 in France to report fraudulent SMS messages.
- Inform the people around you so that they don't fall into the trap.
5. Tips for lasting protection
5.1. Use digital security tools
- Install antivirus and phishing blockers on your devices.
- Set up SMS alerts to monitor your banking transactions.
5.2. Avoid sharing sensitive information
- Never give your personal data to an unverified source.
- Give priority to communications via official platforms.
5.3. Stay informed with Saferbuy
- Read our regular articles to keep up with the latest trends in cyber fraud.
- Subscribe to our social networks for real-time alerts.
5. Conclusion: Stay alert with Saferbuy
SMS scams from fake delivery drivers are a growing threat. By staying informed and vigilant, you can avoid falling into their traps. At Saferbuy, we're committed to providing you with practical advice and tools for safely navigating the world of online commerce.
6. FAQs on sms scams
An SMS scam, also known as smishing, is a fraud attempt where cybercriminals send malicious messages to steal your personal or banking data, or infect your device with malware.
Here are a few clues:
- The sender uses a suspicious number or e-mail address.
- The message contains spelling or grammatical errors.
- It includes unsafe or suspicious links (no “https://”).
- An urgent request, such as paying customs duties or providing personal information.
- Do not click on the links in the message.
- Delete the SMS immediately.
- If you're expecting a parcel, contact the delivery service directly via their official website.
- Report the fraudulent SMS in France to 33700.
The main risks include :
- Theft of personal data: name, address, bank details.
- Direct debit fraud: Cybercriminals can access your accounts.
- Malware installation: Your phone or computer may be infected.
In France, you can report suspicious SMS messages:
- By transferring the message to the 33700.
- On the official website cybermalveillance.gouv.fr for a detailed description.
- By contacting your telephone operator.