'Your FedEx parcel could not be delivered': How a scammer tried to extort money from me (and failed)

In today's digital age, where online transactions and deliveries have become the norm, it's crucial to remain vigilant against potential scams and frauds. Recently, I had a close encounter with a scam that masqueraded as a legitimate communication from FedEx. Here's my story, along with tips on how to recognise and prevent such fraudulent activities.

Recognising Fraud

The first step in safeguarding yourself against fraud is to know how to spot it. One common tactic employed by scammers is to impersonate reputable companies like FedEx. These scammers may reach out via unsolicited calls, emails, or text messages, claiming that there are illegal items in a package addressed to you or sent by you. It's essential to remember that FedEx does not request payment or personal information through such channels in exchange for goods in transit. If you receive any communication of this nature, it's a red flag.

Another telltale sign of fraud is the insistence on immediate action or the threat of legal consequences. Scammers often employ scare tactics, claiming that your parcel has been seized by authorities and that you must pay to avoid arrest or legal action. It's crucial not to succumb to pressure and to verify the authenticity of such claims before taking any action.

My Encounter

In my case, I received a call from someone claiming to be a FedEx representative from +91 8100886683 (Jio Sim/Kolkata region), informing me that a package addressed to me couldn't be delivered. The person confirmed my name and number to me and told me that a parcel that I sent could not be delivered. Apparently, a parcel under my name was being sent from Mumbai to Taiwan. He went on to tell me that it had been intercepted due to the presence of illegal items.

The caller swiftly connected me to individuals posing as law enforcement officials, who threatened legal repercussions unless I made a payment immediately. Sensing something amiss, I told them that you all will be part of a news story. I refused to comply and contacted FedEx directly to verify the authenticity of the call. It turned out to be a scam, and I narrowly avoided falling victim to it.

Preventing Fraud

Preventing fraud requires vigilance and caution. If you encounter any suspicious communication purporting to be from FedEx or any other reputable company, refrain from sharing personal information or making payments. Instead, contact the company directly through official channels to verify the authenticity of the communication. Additionally, report any fraudulent activity to local law enforcement authorities to prevent others from falling prey to similar scams.

Common Warning Signs

To help you identify potential scams, here are some common warning signs to watch out for:

- Unexpected requests for money in exchange for delivery of a package, especially with a sense of urgency.
- Requests for personal or financial information, particularly through unsolicited channels.
- Links to websites with misspelt or slightly altered addresses, as scammers often create fake websites to deceive victims.
- Spelling and grammatical errors in communications, which may indicate a lack of professionalism.
- Claims of lottery winnings or settlements that seem too good to be true.
- Certificate errors or the absence of Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption for sensitive activities, indicating a lack of security measures.

By remaining vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself against fraud and scams, ensuring a safer online experience for yourself and others. If you ever encounter suspicious activity, remember to report it promptly and seek assistance from trusted sources. Stay safe, stay alert.