The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued an important advisory to alert citizens about a sharp rise in fraudulent courier-related scams across the country.
With online shopping and parcel deliveries becoming increasingly common, cybercriminals are now exploiting unsuspecting customers through fake SMS messages, emails, and calls, posing as reputed courier service providers.
Fake Delivery Messages on the Rise
According to the PTA, scammers are targeting users by sending fake delivery notifications, claiming that a package is ready for shipment or needs verification. These fraudulent messages often request recipients to click on malicious links, pay unnecessary delivery charges, or provide sensitive details such as one-time passwords (OTPs) and banking information. Once accessed, these links can compromise a user’s data, leading to financial loss and identity theft.
How the Scam Works
In many cases, fraudsters impersonate well-known courier companies, making their messages appear legitimate. These deceptive notifications may claim:
A parcel has arrived and requires payment
Details need updating to confirm delivery
A link must be clicked to track a shipment
OTP or banking details are required for processing
By manipulating trust, scammers convince users to share personal information or transfer money, only to disappear afterward.
PTA’s Safety Advisory for Citizens
The PTA strongly advises the public to stay vigilant and avoid responding to suspicious delivery messages. Users are urged to:
Never share OTPs, passwords, or banking details
Avoid clicking links received through unknown numbers or emails
Verify delivery claims directly with the courier company’s official helpline
Block and report suspicious numbers to mobile operators or the PTA
The authority also encourages consumers to carefully review the sender ID and text format before taking any action. Genuine courier companies typically never ask for sensitive data or payments via SMS links.
Public Encouraged to Stay Alert
As cyber fraud cases continue to grow in Pakistan, digital safety awareness has become essential. The PTA is actively monitoring such activities and working with telecom operators to curb scam attempts. Citizens are urged to remain cautious and report cybercrime incidents to the relevant authorities.