Delivery Box Scam: A New Way Cybercriminals Are Stealing Your Data — Here’s How to Stay Safe
With the rise of online shopping through platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, a new type of scam is silently targeting unsuspecting customers. It begins with something as simple as throwing away your delivery box — a routine habit that might just open the door to identity theft and financial fraud.
What is the Delivery Box Scam?Each time you receive an online order, it comes in a cardboard box with a shipping label attached. This label contains your personal information — name, phone number, email address, and sometimes even product details. Most people discard the box without a second thought.
But here's the catch — scammers are retrieving these boxes from trash or recycling bins. With just the information on the label, they craft convincing phone calls pretending to be from Amazon, Flipkart, or other shopping platforms.
How the Fraud HappensOnce scammers have your contact details, they usually call claiming to be representatives from the online shopping site. They may say they’re conducting a feedback survey or offering you an exclusive discount — often 10% or more on your next purchase — to gain your trust.
Next, they send you a malicious link via SMS, email, or WhatsApp under the guise of collecting feedback or confirming your identity. If you click on the link:
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Malware gets installed on your device
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It captures sensitive data like banking credentials, passwords, and OTPs
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In extreme cases, your bank account can be drained within minutes
This form of social engineering takes advantage of people's trust and casual handling of personal data. What looks like harmless packaging is actually a goldmine for cybercriminals.
How to Protect YourselfTo avoid falling victim to the delivery box scam, here are some crucial tips:
Always remove or black out personal details on the shipping label before discarding any delivery box.
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Use a permanent marker to hide your name, address, and phone number.
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Alternatively, tear off or shred the label completely.
Be suspicious of calls offering discounts or requesting feedback related to your recent online orders.
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Verify the source before responding to any such call.
Never click on unfamiliar or suspicious links sent via SMS, email, or messaging apps — even if they seem to come from trusted brands.
Do not share any OTPs, passwords, or bank details over the phone or through links.
Only interact through official websites or mobile apps of platforms like Amazon or Flipkart. If unsure, contact customer service through verified numbers.
Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, and the delivery box scam is a prime example of how even discarded packaging can lead to serious consequences. As e-commerce continues to grow, staying alert and safeguarding your personal information has never been more important.
So next time you unwrap your package, don’t just throw away the box — destroy the data that comes with it. It could save you from losing your hard-earned money.
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