Be Aware of Fake Parcel Delivery Texts
We are seeing an increase in the number of scam parcel delivery texts and, according to the cyber security company Proofpoint, they are the most prevalent type of ‘smishing’ text messages. These scams, a common one being for EVRI, ask for your details and then a small shipping fee to cover the cost of rearranging the delivery. They then have access to your bank details and all your information.
How to avoid ‘smishing’ scams
- Don’t click on links in text messages. Use the couriers official app or go directly to their website. Scammers are getting better and better at copying websites of trusted organisations, so it might not be obvious that the link you have clicked on has taken you to a scam website. It is always best to go directly to the official app or website, even if you think the text could be genuine.
- Check the tracking number on the official app or website. If you are unsure as to whether a text is genuine, check the tracking number on the couriers official app or website, not the link from the text message. If the message is genuine then on the official app or website the tracking number will display your parcels delivery information, if it is a scam the tracking number will not work.
- Check URLs and SSL certificates. A site having an SSL certificate does not automatically mean that it is a genuine site, as these can be obtained for free with little verification. Always check the URL of a site and if you are unsure then use a search engine to find the legitimate version of the site. For example, the URL for the site that EVRI scam text sends you to is myevri-package.web.app when in reality the URL for EVRI is evri.com.
What to do if you pay the shipping fee
- Contact your bank. As soon as you realise you might have sent money to a scammer contact your bank immediately.
- Contact the Financial Ombudsman. If your bank is unable to help then the Financial Ombudsman is your next option.
- Report it to Action Fraud. You can do this by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting the Action Fraud website. Action Fraud is the reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Remember to report scam messages
7726 is a number that most mobile customers using UK networks can text to report unwanted SMS messages or phone calls on a mobile. The number ‘7726’ was chosen because it spells ‘SPAM’ on an alphanumeric phone keypad – that’s a handy way of remembering it.
The EVRI Scam
A member of our team received an EVRI scam text message and shared these screen shots so we can show just how sophisticated these sites are becoming.
