Police issue delivery scam warning

Police are warning residents to be on their guard following reports of scam text and email messages which appear to be from parcel delivery companies.

The messages appear to be from delivery companies like DPD and Royal Mail, stating that they've tried to deliver a package and asking you to click a link to reschedule the delivery. The link directs you to an authentic looking but fake website, which asks for your full name, address, date of birth and mobile number. Upon completion of the form, you are then asked to enter full credit card details. So far there have been no reported loses to victims in Hertfordshire.

Detective Inspector Rob Burns, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Serious Fraud and Cyber Unit, said: "This scam is very convincing with Christmas a few weeks away and many people are shopping online and waiting for their orders to be delivered. “It’s important to check the details in the messages and make sure it is genuinely related to an item you have ordered. Does the message use your name, rather than to an email address? Does it mention the goods or company you have ordered items from? If in doubt do not click the link and contact the vendor directly via their website.

"Please help us to raise awareness by talking about this with your friends and family, especially if they are vulnerable or elderly."

Visit www.actionfraud.police.uk or www.herts.police.uk/protectyourmoney for advice on avoiding scams.

If you believe that you are a victim of this scam please report online to  actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.