No. 15 — Fake SMS check

Is this message really from India Post?

Fake "your parcel is held, update your address or pay ₹25" messages are everywhere. Paste the SMS, email or WhatsApp message below. It's checked in your browser and nothing is uploaded.

Four rules that beat almost every parcel scam

i.

Don't tap the link

Track only by typing the number yourself, here or on the official site.

ii.

No "small fee"

Postage is paid at booking. Duty or COD is paid to the postman or at the counter, against a receipt.

iii.

Never share an OTP

No delivery needs your OTP, UPI PIN, CVV or a screen-sharing app. Check the helpline on the official website, not in the message.

Already clicked or paid?

  1. Call your bank immediately and block the card or UPI ID you used.
  2. Call the national cyber crime helpline 1930, or report at cybercrime.gov.in. Reporting fast improves the chance of freezing the money.
  3. Report the SMS sender on Sanchar Saathi (Chakshu).
  4. If you installed an app from the link, uninstall it and change your banking passwords from another device.