A strange text message from DHL is currently leaving many people at a loss. We’ll tell you what the message is about and why it’s better not to respond to it.
Is there really a DHL package waiting for you this time? (Source: Belish/depositphotos.com)
Just like the grandchild trick, the parcel scam is also one of the oldest and best-known fraud attempts. However, although each of you has probably received a phishing message in the name of DHL or another parcel delivery company, they are not always easy to recognize. A particularly unusual variation is currently in circulation.
The SMS says that your package has arrived at the warehouse, but delivery is not possible due to an incomplete address. That’s why you will be asked to confirm this within 12 hours via an attached link. So far so familiar.
After the link, however, things get a little weirder. You will be asked to reply to the SMS with “Y”, then close it and then reopen the activation link. It is unclear exactly what the fraudsters want to do with this approach.
You can recognize the fraud by looking at the sender address. (Source: Screenshot Netzwelt)
What is clear, however, is that they want to use the phishing attempt to get your personal data. You can sell these on the dark web. As a result, you could become the target of further cyberattacks. Under no circumstances should you click on the link or follow the scammers’ instructions.
Simple signs: How to recognize every phishing email
A first indication that you have received a phishing email: The email will ask you to confirm personal information or enter it on a website. This Under no circumstances should you comply with the demand. In addition, criminals often use the official logos of the companies they are copying in their emails, but not official sender addresses.
If the sender seems suspicious to you, you should read the email twice. You will often find spelling errors or inconsistencies in German grammar. The attackers usually do not write their own emails, but instead use automatically generated messages or translate known emails with a translation program. But why actually go through all the effort?
What do criminals achieve with phishing attacks?
Phishing is used on the Internet to collect real user data. These can be used to make money when email addresses, names and other information are sold for advertising purposes or passed on in criminal forums. With the data obtained, cyber criminals can also target future phishing attacks more specifically, making their attacks more effective.
Have you received a suspicious email?
Forward it to [email protected]
or follow us on:
Phishing checklist
- ✔
Spelling mistake? - ✔
Sensitive data requested? - ✔
Official logos? - ✔
Unknown sender?
Attachments and links contained in malicious emails often introduce malware or viruses to your computer. In addition, you should not simply ignore suspicious emails. Forward it to the email address above and help us report future phishing attacks.
More fraud warnings on netzwelt – stay one step ahead of cybercriminals
But phishing emails are not the only danger lurking on the Internet. In addition to attempted fraud, there are all sorts of viruses, Trojans and malware that can infect your computer. Unfortunately, data scandals are also part of everyday digital life. You can see the five most recent articles on the topic of “fraud warnings” below:
If you want to stay informed about the latest fraud reports, subscribe to netzwelt on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also find all articles on the topic on the next page.
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