ViraScoop
Christmas is one of the busiest seasons of the year. As a result, scammers often work around the clock to make the most out of this season. Although there are warnings and ways to avoid these scammers, they get more creative each day. Lucky for you, we highlight numerous tips in this post on how you could protect yourself from the shady conning tactics of scammers.
Tips to Avoid Delivery Scams
- Know how real delivery companies work
Genuine parcel delivery companies don’t ask for customer details through calls, emails or require them to download a form and fill it. As such, make note of every online delivery you had. Besides, you can contact the courier service through their official website and inquire whenever you have any concerns.
- Be cautious and ensure safe delivery
If you are expecting a valuable item delivered to your house, buy shipping insurance. Get the tracking number of the item and check its shipping progress from time to time. Moreover, take note of any red flags. Note that most scammers send emails that often feature odd-looking URL addresses. Moreover, the email might address you as “Dear Customer” instead of your name.
- Watch out for calls about a missed delivery
Most legitimate delivery services will leave a missed delivery note on your home. In case you receive a missed delivery note, examine it and ensure it is genuine before you follow its instructions. Additionally, keep track of the items that you have ordered to estimate when you expect them delivered.
- Request a signature
This feature comes with a price tag, which means that you might have to pay extra for it. Requesting a signature implies that when the delivery is made, the item won’t be handed over or dropped without being signed for.
- Never leave packages sitting on your doorstep
When delivery of an item is made and is left sitting on your door, they become susceptible to theft. As such, make sure your mode of delivery is safe and ensure the delivery is made to your place of work or to a trusted neighbour or friend who will be at home to take in the delivery. Some companies provide safe holding places or lockers to keep your parcel safe as they wait for you to pick it.
- Open your item upon receipt and check for any damage or signs of tampering
It is important to open the package upon receipt and check whether the item is what you ordered. Be sure to confirm it is intact and free of damages too. Moreover, always review the seller’s return policy for damaged or unsolicited items before placing any order.
Although package deliveries have advanced to become easier and more efficient, they are yet to be scam-free. Fortunately, we can avoid being vulnerable by being extra-careful.
