Beware! Royal Mail Scam Texts and Emails Seek To Steal Money
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
Scammers are aggressively targeting unsuspecting victims with Royal Mail text message and email scams. These sophisticated scams aim to trick people into giving away personal information and bank details. Many have fallen victim after receiving convincing texts or emails that appear to be from Royal Mail.
This article will provide an in-depth overview of how these Royal Mail scams operate, how to identify them, and most importantly, how to protect yourself from falling for them. With online shopping and package deliveries surging in popularity, it’s crucial to be aware of these delivery scams.
Overview of the Royal Mail Text and Email Scam
The Royal Mail text and email scam involves messages that claim there is an issue with a package delivery. The messages include convincing Royal Mail branding and often have parcel numbers or tracking IDs to add legitimacy.
The texts and emails state various reasons for the “delivery problem” such as:
Additional customs charges need to be paid
The parcel is on hold
Delivery address confirmation is required
A redelivery fee must be paid
Whatever the supposed issue, the scammers pose as Royal Mail and instruct the victim to click on a link or call a phone number to resolve it. Their ultimate goals are to steal money, harvest personal information, or infect devices with malware.
This scam has skyrocketed during the Covid-19 pandemic as more people shop online and anxiously await parcel deliveries. Victims are often eagerly expecting a package and don’t suspect the notifications are fake.
The sophistication of these scams varies. Some contain spelling errors and other signs they aren’t legitimate, while others can be quite convincing. The scammers put effort into replicating Royal Mail fonts, colors, and branding.
The U.K. Royal Mail has received numerous complaints about these text and email scams. They frequently warn customers on their website and social channels to be aware of these malicious messages that fraudulently claim to be from Royal Mail.
Key things to know about the scam:
Uses real Royal Mail branding: The scam messages closely mimic the look of legitimate Royal Mail messages. This tricks many recipients.
Makes urgent claims: The texts and emails often say immediate action is required or a penalty will be assessed. This pressures victims to click without thinking.
Directs victims to fake sites: The links go to convincing but fraudulent Royal Mail lookalike sites where victims enter personal info or bank details.
May include parcel numbers: Adding fake parcel IDs makes the messages more credible and personalized.
Often originates from mobile numbers: The texts come from ever-changing mobile numbers that are hard to trace. Emails also use throwaway accounts.
Seeks personal info and money: Whether through fake sites or phone calls, the scammers ultimately want your private data, bank logins, and/or direct payments.
Prevalent after online shopping: Victims expect deliveries after online purchases, so they’re less likely to suspect delivery notifications are fake.
This scam has become widespread in the U.K. as more citizens fall for it. But awareness can stop people from being deceived and protect their personal data.
How the Royal Mail Text and Email Scam Works
Royal Mail imposter scams operate on multiple fronts through both text messages and emails. Here are the step-by-step specifics on how the scammers carry out both forms of this scam:
Royal Mail Text Message Scam
A text is sent from a mobile number that disguises itself as an official Royal Mail message. The number is often randomly generated to avoid blocking.
The message claims there is an issue with a package delivery, using urgent language and official Royal Mail branding. Some variant of needing payment, address confirmation, customs fees, or redelivery is stated.
A link is included to supposedly resolve the delivery problem. This links to a fake Royal Mail website that impersonates the look and web address of the real Royal Mail site.
On the fraudulent Royal Mail site, victims are prompted to enter personal information like name, address, and contact details. In some cases, they are redirected to another fake site and asked to login or provide bank account information.
The scammers now have the victim’s personal information, which can be used or sold for identity theft. If bank details are provided, the account can be drained. And malware may also be downloaded onto the device.
With the sensitive details acquired, the scammers disappear and are virtually impossible to trace since they used an anonymous texting service and fake sites. The victim’s information and money are now in the hands of criminals.
Royal Mail Email Scam
An email is sent to recipients that convincingly spoofs the RoyalMail.com address and branding in the message. The From address is a fake but made to look real.
The email claims the recipient has a pending package delivery, but there is an issue that must be resolved. Just like the text scam, payment for customs or delivery fees is often cited as well as address confirmation.
A link within the email leads to an illegitimate Royal Mail website that harvests personal information when entered by victims. In other cases, it downloads malware onto the victim’s device.
The scam email directs users to enter bank account information under the guise of paying fees. This allows immediate access to financial accounts.
In addition to bank theft and malware installation, the scammers obtain personal data like name, email, address, and phone number which aids identity theft.
As with the text scam, the criminals have now acquired sensitive information through the fake Royal Mail emails and sites. The ephemeral email addresses used make the scammers difficult to trace.
Red Flags of the Scam:
Spelling and grammar errors
Threatening urgent language
Requests for financial information
Links to sites with odd URLs or domain names
Requests to instal software on your device
Phone numbers from outside the U.K.
How to Spot Royal Mail Scam Texts and Emails
Royal Mail imposters use clever tricks, but there are ways to identify the fraudulent texts and emails:
Check the Sender
Closely examine the sender’s phone number for texts and the email address for emails. Scammers often use numbers outside the UK or addresses that mimic Royal Mail’s.
Look for Odd Links
Fake sites use misleading URLs. Inspect links for odd domain names that don’t match the real Royal Mail. Hover to preview addresses.
Watch for Poor Spelling and Grammar
Scam messages often contain typos, grammar mistakes and broken English. Legitimate Royal Mail communications won’t have these errors.
Verify Unexpected Requests
Step back if a text or email out of the blue asks for personal details or payment. Especially for a delivery you don’t recall.
Analyze Urgency Claims
Scammers pressure victims to act fast to avoid penalties. But Royal Mail will never threaten you via text or email blasts.
Check for Missing Details
If a text or email lacks key details like your full address, specific parcel details, order references etc., it could be a scam.
When in Doubt, Contact Royal Mail
If something seems off, forward scam emails to phishing@royalmail.com or contact Royal Mail directly to verify legitimacy.
Trust your instincts. Take time to cautiously examine any Royal Mail communications and watch for these telltale scam signs. Don’t let scammers rush you into providing valuable personal information.
What to Do if You Have Fallen Victim to the Scam
If you suspect you have been targeted or already fallen victim to a Royal Mail text or email scam, take the following recommended steps:
1. Contact your bank.
If any financial information was shared, immediately reach out to your bank and warn them what happened. They can monitor for fraudulent activity and potentially freeze accounts. The quicker you notify them, the less likely and less severe the damages.
2. Change any compromised credentials.
Whether entering details on fake sites or downloading malware, the scammers may now have login information for critical accounts like email, social media, and financial platforms. Rapidly change your passwords for protection.
3. Scan devices for malware.
If you clicked any links or attachments, scan all devices involved for viruses and malware using quality antivirus software like Malwarebytes. Quarantine or delete anything suspicious.
4. Place fraud alert on your credit.
Contact all three major credit bureaus to declare fraud alerts on your credit file. This warns lenders to scrutinize any new activity and loan applications. Include information on the identity theft you experienced.
5. Monitor accounts and credit reports.
Carefully monitor financial accounts, credit reports, and online logins in the months following identity theft or scam victimization. Ongoing diligence helps spot fraudulent activity.
6. Report the scam.
Notify the real Royal Mail and file reports about both the text message and email scams via their consumer complaint process. Contact the Citizen’s Advice Bureau for guidance.
7. Document details as evidence.
Keep records like screen shots of scam texts, emails, and sites as evidence for claims and investigations. Note all relevant dates, numbers, correspondence, and losses.
8. Reset devices to factory settings if severe infection.
For serious malware attacks, the most thorough solution may be completely wiping the storage on phones, laptops, and other infected devices and resetting to factory settings. This eliminates embedded malware.
9. Seek additional assistance if identity theft occurred.
Contact the national ActionFraud service as well as the Identity Theft Resource Center forextended help recovering from fraud using your stolen information. They can guide next steps.
Falling for the Royal Mail delivery scam can have wide-ranging repercussions. But by taking quick, proactive measures, you can mitigate the damage and prevent further negative impacts going forward.
Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan
Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free — one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.
The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:
Adware — the cause of those annoying pop-ups
Browser hijackers — unwanted redirects and changed homepages
Trojans and spyware — hidden programs stealing your data
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) — software you never asked for
👉 Select your device below — Windows, Mac, or Android — then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows — and it’s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows from the official source. The free version is all you need — it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.
(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)
Install Malwarebytes
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the MBSetup file. If Windows shows a User Account Control pop-up, click “Yes” to allow the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:
Choose where you’re installing the program — “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” — then click Next.
Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.
When installation is complete, the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen will open automatically.
On the final screen, click Open Malwarebytes to launch the program.
Enable “Scan for Rootkits”
Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the Settings gear icon on the left side of the screen.
In the settings menu, find “Scan for rootkits” and click the toggle so it turns blue.
Done? Click “Dashboard” in the left pane to return to the main screen.
Start the Scan
Click the blue Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found — malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all of them at once.
Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.
Restart Your Computer
Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click Yes. Once you’re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.
When the scan finishes, click Quarantine to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That’s it — your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss — adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it’s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Mac.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The Malwarebytes for Mac Installer will guide you through a few quick screens. Click “Continue” and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.
When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click “Get started“.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”
Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you’re installing it on. Click either Personal Computer or Work Computer, whichever applies.
Start the Scan
Click the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the threats at once.
Restart Your Mac
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot — if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you’re logged back in, your Mac is clean.
Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
After the scan, tap Remove Selected to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean — no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button — so blocking them at the source is your best defense.
We recommend AdGuard, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.
These are fraudulent messages sent by scammers impersonating Royal Mail. They state there are issues with package deliveries in order to trick people into clicking dangerous links, calling fake numbers, and providing personal information.
How do I recognize these Royal Mail scams?
Warning signs include urgency claims, requests for financial information, spelling/grammar errors, threats of fees, links to odd URLs, and senders from outside the U.K. Verify legitimacy directly with Royal Mail if uncertain.
What is the goal of these scams?
The scammers aim to steal identities, drain bank accounts, and install malware using the fake texts and emails. By posing as Royal Mail, they seek sensitive personal and financial data.
What should I do if I get a suspicious text or email?
Do not click any links, call any phone numbers, enter information, or make payments. Forward scam emails to phishing@royalmail.com. Report text scams to your mobile provider.
What if I already clicked a link or provided information?
Immediately contact your bank, scan devices for malware, place fraud alerts with credit bureaus, change online account passwords, monitor your credit, and report the scam.
How can I avoid falling for Royal Mail scams?
Carefully analyze texts and emails, look for warnings signs, contact Royal Mail with concerns, avoid opening attachments or links, and never provide info or payments to unverified sources.
How prevalent are these Royal Mail scams?
These scams have mushroomed along with online shopping. With more deliveries, scammers have increasingly impersonated Royal Mail for identity theft and financial theft.
Who is responsible for these scams?
Individual scammers and international cybercrime rings are behind the scam texts and emails. They operate anonymously and are difficult to trace, often from overseas.
What are the risks if I provide my information?
Identity theft, drained bank accounts, credit damage, and malware infections. Scammers can heavily exploit personal info, bank details, and account access provided.
Can Royal Mail help if I’ve been scammed?
Unfortunately Royal Mail has no liability, but will provide support through contacting authorities and tracking scam trends. Individual investigation and claims are required.
How can I protect myself from Royal Mail scams?
Stay vigilant examining texts and emails, avoid opening links or attachments, contact Royal Mail with concerns, and never give out financial or personal data to unverified sources. Caution is key.
Conclusion
Royal Mail imposter text messages and emails are an invasive scam tactic that all consumers should beware. These fraudulent notifications about package deliveries fool unknowing victims into surrendering personal data and bank details.
By understanding how these scams work, recognizing red flags, and acting promptly if victimized, people can equip themselves against these malicious cybercrimes. The insights in this article can help individuals avoid the anguish of identity theft and financial loss from this deceitful scam.
Stay vigilant about texts and emails that claim to be from Royal Mail. Verify legitimacy before clicking links or calling numbers. If unsure, contact Royal Mail directly for confirmation. Follow smart cyber security habits with links, personal info, downloads, and deliveries. And never provide sensitive data to unofficial sources.
With increased scam awareness and caution, these frauds can be reduced and ultimately managed. But it requires an informed public that critically analyzes digital communications and understands this threat. Heed the warnings, advice, and information within this article to protect yourself and your finances from Royal Mail delivery scams.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
About Thomas Orsolya
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
