Warning: Government warns of fake India Post scam, hundreds of users receive fraudulent message

A scam SMS message, allegedly from India Post, is doing the rounds with scammers targeting unsuspecting users. The deceptive message claims to inform users that their package has arrived at a warehouse and urgently requires an address update to prevent the package from being returned. The fake message also includes a link that users are advised not to open because they could lose money. Hundreds of users affected by this scam reported it on X (formerly Twitter).

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check, a reliable government authority, has debunked this post as a scam. They took to social media to alert the public, emphasizing that India Post never sends such messages requesting address updates for parcel deliveries.

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“Have you also received an SMS from @IndiaPostOffice stating that your parcel has arrived at the warehouse, further asking you to update your details within 48 hours to avoid the parcel being returned? #PIBFactCheck Attention! This message is #fake,” it read. the message shared by PIB Fact Check on X.

What does the fake SMS contain?

The text message usually reads: “Your package has arrived at the warehouse and we have attempted to deliver it twice but were unable to do so due to incomplete address information. Please update update your address within 48 hours, otherwise the package will be returned. In order to update the address click on the link (indisposegvs.top/IN) Once the update is completed, the package will be re-delivered within 24 hours. .

This message exploits users’ trust in postal services and attempts to trick them into providing personal information by clicking on a malicious link. Such scams aim to steal sensitive data or install harmful software on the user’s device.

How to protect yourself from SMS fraud

-It is always necessary to cross-check the sender’s information. Official messages from organizations like India Post will generally come from recognized and verified sources.

-It is advised not to click on any link coming from an unknown or suspicious SMS. These could redirect you to malicious websites designed to steal your information.

-If in doubt, contact the organization directly through its official customer service channels. Use the contact information from their official website, not from the message you received.

-You must report any suspicious messages to the competent authorities or services such as PIB Fact Check. This helps prevent others from becoming victims.

-Users are advised to protect their device with updated security software that can detect and block malicious links and apps. It’s always best to check the authenticity of unexpected messages and exercise caution online.