Overview

• 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.