Cyber gangsters exploit the many orders and associated package deliveries in the run-up to Christmas for phishing attacks. There are currently emails circulating that claim to come from a parcel service provider. PC-WELT also received an alleged package delivery message and the consumer advice center also warns against such emails.
This is how the fraudulent emails are structured
Let’s take one such scam email as an example, which claims to come from the parcel service DPD. The emails use the DPD logo, its typical red color scheme and a photo showing a DPD delivery van. The subject line says: “Your DPD parcel is being delayed”.
The actual email states that DPD will deliver the shipment on the next working day. This is followed by the package number, name and storage and change options for a package. Further information can be obtained via the links. These links then lead to fake websites where the cyber gangsters want to access your data.
How to recognize the fraud
The first question you should always ask yourself when receiving emails or SMS from parcel delivery services: Have I actually ordered anything and does the sender even use the delivery service specified in the email or SMS?
Also drag the mouse cursor over the sender address of the email on your PC or Mac. Then you will see the actual sender. In the case of DPD, “[email protected]” must always be named as the sender.
You can also enter and check the parcel number mentioned in the email here on the DPD website.
If it turns out that the email address is obviously fake and/or the package number does not exist or is not addressed to you, delete the email immediately without clicking on anything in it.
DPD lays off 1,400 employees
While we’re on the subject of DPD: According to media reports, the well-known parcel delivery service is laying off up to 1,400 employees over the next two years. This means that one in seven jobs at DPD would be eliminated. DPD currently employs 9,600 people.
