South Yorkshire Police issue warning about text message scam as fraudsters pretend to be delivery companies

A police warning has been issued about fraudsters sending text messages claiming to be from delivery companies to victims in South Yorkshire.
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Known as a parcel delivery scam, fraudsters claiming to be from firms including Hermes send text messages claiming an outstanding fee needs to be paid before an item can be delivered.

The text messages usually contain a link which, when clicked, asks for payment information.

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This then gives scammers access to their victim’s bank account.

South Yorkshire Police has issued a warning about a scam involving text messages claiming to be from delivery companiesSouth Yorkshire Police has issued a warning about a scam involving text messages claiming to be from delivery companies
South Yorkshire Police has issued a warning about a scam involving text messages claiming to be from delivery companies

PC Gavin Johnson, from South Yorkshire Police’s fraud co-ordination team, said: "We know that thankfully, many people will treat text messages like this with suspicion, but with many of us doing more shopping online these days and therefore expecting more deliveries it can be easy to fall for a scam like this. The scammers are professionals so the messages can be quite convincing.

“I’d really encourage everyone to spread the word about scams like this, and ensure their loved ones know to be vigilant.”