30.04.2026 - Although we often recognise and delete phishing or scam messages these days, parcel fraud is still successful. Parcel notifications seem believable because we all encounter delivery problems in everyday life, and all the message asks you to do is click on a link for further information. However, if you follow the link, you will end up on a fraudulent website that asks for your credit card details or tricks you into signing up for a subscription. Due to the growing use of delivery services, it is becoming more and more difficult to distinguish a genuine delivery issue from a fake one.
Behind seemingly harmless messages warning of a delivery problem – such as outstanding customs fees – there is often much more going on. What makes these messages particularly insidious is that they usually request a very small payment, such as CHF 1.99. These small amounts are designed to earn your trust and make you lower your guard. In many cases, however, the supposed fee is not just an attempt to obtain your credit card details. Some sites lure victims into taking out a paid subscription without realising. At first glance, these sites often look like classic phishing attempts: they are designed to appear legitimate, with crucial information only becoming evident upon closer scrutiny. In this way, victims are led into signing up for the subscription over several steps. The actual information about the subscription is sometimes hidden outside the visible page area, or is only mentioned in the small print or terms and conditions. Victims often do not notice the financial impact until later, when they view their credit card statement.
Check whether the story is credible
Because parcel notifications are commonplace, it is worth taking a second look at them. Were you expecting a parcel? Is the tracking number correct? Does the supposed sender make sense in your situation? If you are actually expecting a delivery, the NCSC recommends comparing the tracking number and, if in doubt, contacting the parcel delivery service or customs authorities directly.
Do not enter payment details on linked pages
If you respond to one of these messages, you will usually be asked to enter your credit card details. Sometimes PaysafeCards or payment codes are also requested. Do not disclose this information. The NCSC expressly advises against providing credit card details or payment codes in response to parcel notifications. You should be particularly cautious if you are told you can only access a supposedly free or inexpensive offer if you enter your credit card details.
Act quickly if you have already entered any details
If you have already provided your credit card details, you should contact your card provider immediately to have your card blocked. It is also a good idea to check the transactions on your credit card regularly, so that you can identify and report any unauthorised charges as quickly as possible. In such cases, swift action is particularly important to limit the damage.
Dealing with parcel notifications securely may require a little more vigilance. However, this effort could save your money. Small sums and everyday situations seem harmless, which makes critical thinking particularly vital.
This year’s S-U-P-E-R.ch awareness campaign reminds us to look at parcel notifications closely and never enter credit card details on unfamiliar websites.
Further information
Last modification 30.04.2026
