We’ve seen fake emails claiming to be from courier company DHL. Don’t be taken in – you don’t have a parcel to collect or track if the email looks like this.
Another brand has joined the list of well-known companies being impersonated in phishing emails by scammers.
As is usually the case, the fraudsters behind these emails are trying to get hold of your name, address and payment details so they can attempt to steal your money.
The tactics are the same as the Santander and Apple ID emails we’ve discussed on Which? Conversation recently.
Targeting a delivery company adds an extra level of intrigue; everyone is, generally, curious and excited about receiving a package through the post.
But if you follow the link you’ll be told there’s a small fee to pay for collection and you’ll be asked to enter your personal data.
DHL phishing email example
Here’s exactly what one of these scam emails looks like:
While the clearly incorrect email address should be a significant red flag, the realistic-looking emails are professionally designed and use high quality branded logos to make it seem like they’re genuinely from DHL.
And that’s certainly the case for another example we’ve seen. While it turns out the below example is circulating in Canada, it could still find its way into your inbox and be enough to trick some into handing over their details:
We’ve made DHL aware of these phishing emails. It hasn’t responded yet, but we’ll update this page when it does.
Treat unexpected deliveries with suspicion
If you get an email, text message or phone call about a parcel you weren’t expecting, treat it with suspicion.
It’s highly unlikely a courier company would have your email address or phone number if you haven’t made an order using its service.
If you’re still not sure, visit the courier company’s website and contact them to ask whether there’s a parcel waiting for you, using their official contact details.
And if you think you’ve handed your details over to a suspicious email like this one, contact your bank as soon as you can. It’ll be able to make sure your account is safe.
Guide: how to get your money back after a scam
Have you received this dodgy DHL email? Or other scam emails from courier or delivery companies?
Let us know in the comments if you have, and help us warn others.
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