Fake Courier / Customs Fee Scam

A "fake courier customs" scam claims your parcel is stuck at customs and asks for a small fee through a link. Couriers collect duties through official channels, not random SMS links — paying captures your card details. Do not pay; verify with the courier directly.

Got a message like this? Check the screenshot →

How the scam works

You get an SMS/WhatsApp that a parcel is "held at customs" with a small pending fee.
The link leads to a payment page that harvests your card/UPI details.
The small "fee" is bait; the real goal is your payment credentials.

Red flags

A small "customs/handling fee" via a link
Urgency ("parcel returns in 24 hours")
Shortened or look-alike courier domain
Unexpected parcel you did not order

Example message

India Post: Your parcel is held at customs. Pay ₹25 customs fee to release: http://bit.ly/parcel-pay. Failure to pay within 24 hours returns the parcel.

What to do

Track parcels only on the official courier site.
Never pay "customs" via SMS links.
A tiny fee is a red flag, not reassurance.
Report at cybercrime.gov.in or 1930.

FAQ

Do couriers charge customs over SMS?

No. Duties are paid through official channels with documentation, not random SMS links.

The fee is only ₹25 — is it safe?

No. The small fee is bait to capture your card details for larger fraud.

Related scams & tools

Report it — India

Never share OTP/UPI PIN. Banks never ask for KYC via SMS/WhatsApp links.

National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: 1930 (Cyber Crime Helpline)

cybercrime.gov.in

This is general safety information, not legal or financial advice. If you have lost money or shared sensitive details, contact your bank and your national fraud agency immediately.