My online partner is sending me a parcel and a courier is asking for a customs fee. Is it real?
Almost certainly not. The parcel scam is one of the oldest romance scams: a gift is "sent", then a fake courier or customs officer asks you to pay a clearing fee by bank transfer.
The courier company often has a website and a tracking number that look real. The fees grow step by step: clearing, insurance, a fine because the parcel "contains money".
Real customs charges are paid through official channels, not into a personal account given to you on WhatsApp.
What to do
- Do not pay any fee to receive a parcel you did not order.
- Look up the courier company yourself instead of using the link or number you were given.
- Check the courier's website, number and email address before replying.
- Tell the person you will only collect the parcel without paying. Watch how they react.
Frequently asked questions
- The tracking page shows my parcel. Is it real then?
- No. Fake tracking pages are part of the scam and can show anything the scammer wants.
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