The recent Canada Post strike has created an opportunity for scammers. With delayed holiday packages, Boxing Day orders, and the general backlog from the strike, criminals are taking advantage of the confusion. Many Albertans are anxiously waiting for parcels, making it easier for scammers to find victims.
Criminals know that during this post-strike cleanup period, we're more likely to believe messages about "delayed deliveries" or "additional processing fees." Thieves may even be able to get away with stealing your packages from your doorstep or impersonating delivery drivers.
These scams can happen to anyone, but there are ways to protect yourself and your neighbours.
Scams You Might Encounter
Text and Email Scams
You might receive a text message saying there's a package waiting for you or an email stating you need to pay additional shipping fees. These messages often look real, using legitimate companies’ logos and professional language. However, they may use urgent threats to pressure you into clicking links or sharing personal information, such as your package will be returned to the sender or it will be held at the border.
Package Theft
Criminals may try to redirect your packages to different addresses or steal them from your porch. When packages sit unattended for hours, thieves can take advantage of these open opportunities.
Fake Delivery People
Some scammers dress up as delivery personnel. They might ask for payment, try to collect personal information, or use fake ID verification apps on their phones.
Spotting These Scams
Often, the sense of urgency and confusion created by these scams don’t give us time to slow down and think things over. Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. We have some warning signs for you to be on the lookout for. Having this knowledge in your back pocket allows you to be prepared to prevent a scam.
Warning Signs In Messages
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Urgent demands for immediate action
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Spelling and grammar mistakes
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Generic greetings like "Dear Sir/Madam"
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Email addresses that don't match official company ones
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Requests for unusual payments like gift cards
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Imagery inconsistent with the delivery company’s official logos
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Tracking numbers that are different or have an inconsistent format
You should also remember that Canada Post never reaches out to customers about deliveries through text or email unless you have requested it. When Canada Post makes an unsuccessful delivery attempt, they leave a delivery notice card at your door or in your mailbox.
Warning Signs With “Delivery People”
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No proper uniform or ID
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Unmarked vehicles
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Pressure to pay immediately
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Requests for personal information
Stay Ahead of These Scams
The most important way to prevent crime is to know how criminals work and be preventive. You can spot the common tactics and telltale signs associated with delivery scams, and you can take action before porch pirates strike. Here are some ways that you can prevent these crimes.
Preventing Message Scams
- Register for legitimate delivery notifications
- Keep records of all online purchases
- Do not click on links in unsolicited emails or texts. Instead, visit the official website of the courier service for updates
- Take your time; look at the sender and the message carefully
- Stay aware of scams
Preventing Package Theft
- Install lighting, security cameras and video doorbells
- Use secure community mailboxes
- Report any mailboxes that have been tampered with
- Ask trusted neighbours to hold your package
- Consider delivery to your workplace or a secure location
Stopping Fake Delivery Personnel
- Keep track of your deliveries
- Look over their attire and vehicle
- Ask for their ID
- Don’t give your personal information
What to Do If You're Scammed
If you've realized you have become a victim of a delivery scam, don't feel ashamed. These scammers are professionals who target hundreds, if not thousands, of people every day. What is more important is taking action to protect your information going forward.
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Contact your bank
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Change compromised passwords
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Document all communication
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Take screenshots of suspicious messages
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Report to your local RCMP detachment
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Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
Criminals will always take advantage of turbulent situations and times of confusion for their benefit. While current mail disruptions have created the perfect storm for scammers and thieves, we can prepare ourselves to prevent delivery scams and package thefts. Our rural communities are safer when we work together. Share what you learn about these scams with your neighbours.
Remember: if you see suspicious activity around mailboxes or during deliveries, report it. Your call might prevent someone else from becoming a victim. Call 1-833-547-RAVE (7283) to report suspicious activity.
January 02, 2025