Courier Delivery Fee and Redelivery Link Scam on WhatsApp

How it looks on WhatsApp, the red flags and what to do.

On WhatsApp the scammer can send images, voice notes, PDFs and APK files, and a friendly profile photo makes the first message feel safe. Courier Delivery Fee and Redelivery Link Scam is one of the ways this shows up: A text says a parcel could not be delivered and asks for a small redelivery fee or address update through a link, then drains your card or UPI.

What courier delivery fee and redelivery link scam looks like on WhatsApp

• A group invite promising returns, jobs or prizes.
• A PDF, APK or image that must be opened to "see the details".
• A link that pretends to be a wa.me, courier or bank page.

The scammer sends the same text to huge lists. Some recipients really are expecting a parcel, and they are the ones who respond. The message names a courier or postal brand and gives a tracking-style number to look genuine. The link looks short and neat, but it leads to a copy of a tracking page with an address form and a payment box.

Red flags to check on the WhatsApp message

• A parcel you do not remember is waiting.
• A tiny fee is asked through a link.
• A form asks for card details to pay Rs 10 or Rs 25.
• The link is shortened or the domain is a lookalike.
• You are added to a group full of people praising profits.
• The sender moves you quickly to Telegram or to a second app.

What to do

1. Do not tap the link or pay the fee.
2. Open the courier's own app, or the shop's order page, and check the shipment there.
3. If you booked it, use the number printed on the receipt or the seller's order page.
4. If it was a "friend", call them on the number you already have and ask.
5. Turn on two-step verification in WhatsApp settings so a stolen SMS code is not enough.
6. Warn the group or family, and report the number on Sanchar Saathi if it is a scam call or message.

Inside WhatsApp use Block and report; for numbers that call or text you, the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility) also takes complaints.

If money or a code is already gone

1. Call 1930 if any money or card amount was taken.
2. Ask your bank through the number on your card to block the card you typed.
3. Report at cybercrime.gov.in with the link and a screenshot.
4. Check your statement for small test charges that may be followed by larger ones.

National Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930; report at cybercrime.gov.in.

Safeavio Sentinel lets you paste the text into the scam check and see reasons such as a tiny fee, a deadline and a link request. The link check looks at the address for lookalike domains and shortened-link patterns before you open it. The QR check helps if the scam sends a QR code. It does not track real parcels and cannot reverse a payment, so confirm shipments only in the courier's app.

Full guide: Courier Delivery Fee and Redelivery Link Scam: how it works, signs and what to do. Other channels: SMS, email.

Questions