DHL Scam Emails - How to Protect Yourself

Common Phishing Tactics

• Address Confirmation Required: The email claims delivery failed because the address is incomplete and urges you to click a button to "Confirm Delivery Address".
• Outstanding Fee / Customs Charges: The message says a package is held at a warehouse and demands a small payment (e.g., €2.86 or a $3 customs fee) within 48 hours to release it.
• Malicious Attachments: The text asks you to open an attached file (like a PDF or .zip file) to view your tracking number or receipt.

How to Spot a Fake DHL Email

• Check the Sender Domain: Official communications only come from @dhl.com, @dpdhl.com, @dhl-news.com, or official country subdomains (like @dhl.de). DHL never uses public services like @gmail.com or @yahoo.com.
• Look for Tracking Numbers: Genuine DHL payment or status requests will always include a valid Airwaybill (AWB) / tracking number. Do not trust emails missing this number.
• Inspect the URL: Hover over any links without clicking them. Authentic links always point to a website starting with https://dhl.com or https://dpdhl.com.
• Creates Artificial Urgency: Scammers use high-pressure language demanding immediate action to prevent you from thinking clearly.

What to Do If You Receive One

1. Do Not Click Links: Never tap on buttons, click links, or download attachments.
2. Verify Manually: Go directly to the official DHL Tracking Portal and type in your tracking number to verify the status.
3. Report the Scam: Forward the email as an attachment to phishing-dpdhl@dhl.com so their security team can track and block the sender. Do not simply forward it as text, as technical routing data will be lost.