A new type of fraud is spreading across India, targeting households through fake cash-on-delivery (COD) parcels. Victims are being forced to pay for packages they never ordered, only to discover fake or useless items inside.
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How The Scam Works
Fraudsters are misusing well-known courier companies to send random parcels to homes. In many cases, the package arrives addressed to someone in the house who never placed an order. When the first delivery is rejected, another package often arrives soon after — sometimes under a different name but at the same address.
Trusting the courier brand, many people agree to pay the COD amount. Once the parcel is opened, the contents turn out to be fake, cheap, or completely unrelated to what was described. Packaging often looks genuine, but QR codes and labels are either invalid or misleading.
Why The Scam Is Dangerous
The scam is particularly effective because it exploits trust in established delivery brands. Fraudsters appear to have access to personal details, such as names and addresses, which makes the delivery look legitimate. Unlike phishing or online frauds, this scam involves physical delivery, making it harder for unsuspecting victims to doubt its authenticity.
Even younger, tech-savvy people have fallen prey, highlighting how convincing the scam has become. For families, the risk increases when elders or household staff accept parcels without verifying orders.
How To Stay Safe
Authorities and experts advise caution with COD deliveries. Families should cross-check every package before paying and confirm whether anyone in the house actually placed the order. Suspicious parcels should be inspected carefully, and customers should demand order details or invoices before making payment.
It is equally important to spread awareness within families, especially among older relatives who may unknowingly accept fraudulent deliveries. Reporting such cases to the courier company can also help prevent further misuse of their services.
As online shopping continues to rise, fraudsters are finding new ways to cheat unsuspecting consumers. The fake COD parcel scam is a reminder to be vigilant, verify deliveries, and never rely solely on courier branding. A few extra checks can save people from financial loss and harassment.