Someone is calling about a parcel stuck at customs that I must pay for. Is it a scam?
If you are not expecting a parcel, it is a scam. If you are, the courier company will tell you about customs duties through its own channels, and you pay the courier, never a private bank account or a voucher.
This is the second half of the "gift from my overseas partner" scam, but it also comes on its own: an SMS with a tracking link, a WhatsApp from a "courier agent", or a call demanding a fee before the parcel is destroyed.
How to check
- Ask yourself whether you ordered anything or know anyone sending you a parcel.
- Do not use the link or number you were given. Look the courier up and phone its official number with the tracking number.
- Real customs charges are paid to the courier or to the state, not to a person.
- Never pay by voucher, airtime or EFT to an individual to release a parcel.
- Check the agent's number and email: scam numbers get reported.
Frequently asked questions
- They say the parcel has cash in it and I will be arrested if I do not pay. Is that possible?
- No. This threat is part of the script. Stop replying.
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