Fake texts and emails appearing to be from Hermes, Royal Mail and DHL are on the rise. An expert has shared tips on what to do if they receive a scam message.

“Always check a firm/bank’s policies before sending info, and if even slightly confused or worried, contact them.”

“I received a text from my Hermes,” another added.

“Not expecting anything. Usually I have had a card through the door so this one was reported.”

One more wrote: “Hermes and Royal Mail DO NOT send out texts asking for money!

“And beware of your *bank* contacting you afterwards – the call is also a scam!”

DON’T MISS

Scams are more obvious for those who are not expecting a parcel.

However, those waiting on a delivery could be more easily convinced by a fake.

Hermes has stated it will not ask for payment over text message.

Digital Privacy Expert at ProPrivacy Ray Walsh also weighed in on suspicious looking messages.

He asked Britons to be on “high alert” when they receive something unexpected.

The expert said: “It is vital that consumers throughout the UK are on high alert for fraudulent Hermes smishing texts, because it could leave victims open to the theft of their personal information and payment details as we have seen with similar Royal Mail and DHL courier scams.

“Anybody who receives a text message, phone call, or email, asking them to pay to have a parcel redelivered is advised to contact the vendor directly to find out the status of their delivery.”

Shoppers shouldn’t be asked for payment from most delivery services.

If they are, it is advised to check directly with the courier service before parting with any cash.

Those who receive texts should also avoid clicking on links and entering personal information.

“Never agree to pay a fee without contacting the vendor and the delivery service first, because it is highly likely that your parcel is still on the way and that you don’t need to pay anything,” Ray continued.

“Anybody who falls for this kind of scam will have their personal information stolen by scammers who will use it to engage in identity theft and fraud.

“If you receive a message or email that asks you to pay a Hermes redelivery fee, look closely at the URL.”

Source: | This article originally belongs to Express.co.uk