Learn about the rise of the FedEx courier scam in India and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim. Find out how scammers use phone calls and WhatsApp to trick people into paying fines and bribes.
The Rise of the FedEx Courier Scam in India
( Credit to: Tech )
The rise of online scams in India has brought about an alarming increase in the prevalence of the FedEx courier scam. Even individuals who consider themselves tech-savvy are falling victim to this fraudulent scheme. In fact, the Bengaluru city police reported a staggering 335 cyber fraud cases related to the FedEx courier scam in 2023, highlighting the severity of the issue.
Understanding the FedEx Courier Scam
The FedEx courier scam begins with an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) phone call from an unknown number. The call claims, "Your FedEx Package Has Been Blocked...Press 1." If someone falls for the lure of a FedEx package and continues the call, they are scammed into paying substantial amounts in the form of "fines." Shockingly, there have been cases where victims have lost significant sums of money, such as a recent incident involving a 70-year-old journalist from Bengaluru who lost ₹1.20 crore to this scam.
The scammers behind this scheme are adept at manipulating their victims. The scam starts with an IVR call but quickly transitions to a WhatsApp call. The scammers pose as airport officials, leveraging the context of the FedEx courier office to gain the victim's attention. They inform the victim that a parcel in their name has been blocked at the airport by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) due to the discovery of drugs. To make the call seem legitimate, the scammers share the victim's Aadhaar card number, address, and other personal details. They even pretend to transfer the call to NCB officials and threaten the victim by claiming that a case has been registered at a nearby police station.
Once the victim is hooked, the scammers employ various tactics to pressure them into paying bribes and fines. Fearful of the consequences of a police case and the potential damage to their reputation, victims often transfer money to the scammers. Once the initial payment is made, the scammers resort to harassment and blackmail to drain the victim's bank accounts.
Tips to Avoid Falling Victim to the FedEx Courier Scam
To protect yourself from falling victim to the FedEx courier scam, it is crucial to be aware of certain precautions. If you receive a call regarding a courier, immediately disconnect the call and block the number. Remember that every legitimate courier comes with a tracking number, which can be verified online. If someone claims to have sent a courier in your name, you would already be aware of it. Additionally, it is important to understand that the NCB or any law enforcement agency does not operate in the manner described by the scammers. Courier companies also have specific protocols in place, and these scammers rely on people's lack of awareness to deceive them.
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Vigilant
As online scams continue to proliferate in India, it is essential for individuals to remain vigilant and informed. The FedEx courier scam is one such scheme that preys on unsuspecting victims, resulting in significant financial losses. By being cautious and following the aforementioned tips, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this fraudulent scheme. Remember, awareness and skepticism are your best defenses against online scams.
