Over 11,000 Complaints Filed Over 'Smishing' Package SMS Scams

Fraudulent messages impersonating delivery services continue to deceive people by demanding fees or personal data.

The German Federal Network Agency received 11,396 complaints in 2024 about fake package SMS scams, slightly fewer than in 2023 but still a significant number.
The scam, known as 'Smishing,' combines SMS and phishing tactics to trick recipients into clicking on malicious links and providing personal data or payments.
Messages often claim issues like unpaid customs fees or missing address details to pressure recipients into engaging with fraudulent websites.
Authorities are investigating and shutting down domestic numbers linked to scams, but international numbers often evade enforcement efforts.
Consumers are advised to avoid clicking on suspicious links, verify deliveries directly with service providers, and report scams to authorities.