DPD Missed Delivery Text Scam

How the Scam Works

• The Hook: You receive an SMS stating a delivery attempt failed and you must "reschedule".
• The Trap: The message includes a link to a fake, realistic-looking website that asks for a small fee (often £1–£3).
• The Goal: Scammers use this "fee" to steal your credit card information, bank details, and personal data like your date of birth or driving licence number.
• Malware Risk: Some links may prompt you to download a "tracking app," which is actually malware designed to steal your passwords and access your contacts.

Red Flags

• Requests for Payment: DPD will never ask for payment to re-deliver a parcel.
• Suspicious Links: Genuine DPD links typically use dpd.co.uk or dpdlocal.co.uk. Scam links often use unusual extensions like .sbs or shortened URLs like bit.ly.
• Vague Greeting: Messages often use "Dear Customer" instead of your name.
• Urgent Threats: Claims that your parcel will be "returned to sender" if you don't act immediately.

What to Do

1. Do Not Click: Avoid clicking any links or replying to the text.
2. Verify Independently: If you are expecting a parcel, go directly to the official DPD Track It page and enter your 14-digit tracking number manually.
3. Report the Text: Forward the suspicious SMS to 7726, a free reporting service used by mobile providers to investigate and block scammers.
4. If You Already Paid: Contact your bank's fraud department immediately to block your card and report the transaction.