I got a text message about a parcel, from the tax office or from my bank. Is it real?

The answer

Do not open the link. Go to the service yourself, through its app or by typing in the address, and see whether the same thing is there.

The messages are built to look real. The language can be flawless and the sender’s name can be the right one, because that can be forged as well.

A scam may use a small payment or an urgent problem, such as a customs charge, another delivery attempt or a confirmation that expires soon.

The check is the same whatever the message looks like. Do not use its link; open the service’s own app or type the address yourself.

If you gave out bank or payment details, contact your bank. Change any password you entered through the link and make a police report if needed.