DHL Package Is Ready for Delivery Email Scam Explained
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
Have you received an email saying your “DHL package is ready for delivery” and urging you to click a “Track Parcel” or “Fill in your details” button? If yes, you’re not alone. Thousands of people around the world are receiving these phishing emails every day. While the message looks professional and even uses DHL’s branding, the truth is alarming: it’s a phishing scam designed to steal personal and financial information.
This in-depth guide exposes how the “DHL Package Is Ready For Delivery” email scam works, how to recognize it, and what steps to take if you’ve already fallen victim.
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Scam Overview: DHL Package Is Ready For Delivery Email Scam
Phishing emails that impersonate DHL have been circulating globally for years, but in 2025, they have become more sophisticated and convincing than ever. The “DHL Package Is Ready For Delivery” email is one of the most common phishing scams targeting individuals and businesses alike.
1. The Email Looks Professional but Is Fake
The scam email is crafted to look like an official DHL communication. It uses the DHL logo, similar colors, and formal language, often with subject lines like:
“Your DHL shipment delivery instructions”
“DHL: Package is ready for delivery”
“DHL Delivery Notice – Action Required”
“Please update your delivery details”
“Parcel on hold – Confirmation required”
The goal of the scammers is to trick you into clicking the provided link or button.
2. What the Email Typically Contains
Most versions of this scam include:
A fake tracking message (“Your package is ready for delivery”)
A fake link or button labeled “Track Parcel” or “Fill in details”
A claim that action is required to ensure successful delivery
A statement that the message is “automatically generated”
References to DHL Support or official websites to appear legitimate
Sample scam email:
Subject: Your DHL shipment delivery instructions Dear Sir/Madam, We would like to inform you that your DHL package is ready for delivery. To ensure successful delivery, please fill in your details by clicking the button below. [Track Parcel] If you have any questions, feel free to contact us via our official website. This message is automatically generated and does not need to be responded to. For more information, please visit DHL Support.
3. Why It Works
These emails work because they play on urgency and familiarity. Many people use delivery services regularly, so receiving a DHL email doesn’t feel suspicious. Scammers rely on:
People expecting a package or forgetting about a recent order
Quick clicks on “Track Parcel” without verifying the sender
Fear of missing a delivery
4. What Happens When You Click
The “Track Parcel” button doesn’t take you to the official DHL website. Instead, it redirects you to:
A phishing site that mimics DHL’s tracking page
A malicious landing page asking for personal or credit card information
Or it may silently attempt to download malware
The fake website may ask you to:
Provide your name, address, and phone number
Enter your credit card number to pay a “re-delivery fee”
Confirm “customs charges” or “taxes”
Once you provide this information, it goes straight into the hands of cybercriminals.
5. Global Scale of the Scam
This is not a small operation. Security researchers have tracked hundreds of domains impersonating DHL, often using addresses like:
dhl-track-parcel.info
dhl-delivery-notice.com
dhl-post-shipping.net
dhltracking-secure.com
These domains are registered anonymously and hosted in multiple countries. Phishing kits are sold on underground forums, allowing even inexperienced criminals to run these scams.
6. DHL’s Official Position
DHL has repeatedly warned customers:
They do not send unsolicited emails asking for payment or personal details.
Official DHL tracking can only be accessed through their official website: https://www.dhl.com
Customers should never click links in suspicious messages and should report phishing to their security team.
How the DHL Package Scam Works
To truly protect yourself, it helps to understand the exact tactics used in this scam. Here’s how it typically unfolds from start to finish:
Step 1: The Bait Email
You receive an email that appears to come from “DHL” with a trustworthy subject line like:
“Your DHL Package is Ready for Delivery”
“Delivery Failed: Action Required”
“DHL Express: Update Delivery Information”
The sender’s email address may look legitimate at first glance, such as:
support@dhl-delivery.com
service@dhltrack.info
notifications@dhl-parcel.net
However, these are not official DHL domains.
The message urges you to take immediate action — usually by clicking a “Track Parcel” or “Update Delivery Information” button.
Step 2: Redirection to a Fake Website
Once you click the link, you’re redirected to a spoofed website. The URL is carefully designed to look real. For example:
https://dhl-track-parcel.com
https://dhl-delivery-confirmation.net
https://dhlpostshipping.co
The website looks almost identical to DHL’s real tracking page. It uses the same logo, fonts, and colors to lower your guard.
Step 3: Phishing for Personal Information
The fake DHL site may display a fake tracking message like:
“Your parcel is currently being held due to missing information. Please update your delivery address to receive your package.”
You’re then prompted to provide:
Full name
Address
Email and phone number
Sometimes even ID information
These details can be used later for identity theft or other scams.
Step 4: Payment Scam Layer
Many versions of this scam include a fake “redelivery fee” of a few euros or dollars. They may say:
“Your parcel requires a small fee of €2.95 for re-delivery.”
To make the scam more believable, the payment form looks professional, using HTTPS and secure-looking padlock icons. But the credit card details you provide are:
Stolen instantly
Potentially used for fraudulent purchases
Often sold on dark web markets
Step 5: Data Harvesting and Exploitation
Once scammers collect your details, they may:
Use your credit card for unauthorized transactions
Sell your personal information to other criminals
Use your email and phone for more targeted phishing
Try to log into your accounts using your details
Step 6: Malware Infections (Optional Tactic)
Some variants of this scam may also:
Prompt you to download a “Delivery Confirmation” PDF
Or redirect to a page that installs malware, trojans, or keyloggers
This allows attackers to monitor your computer activity, steal passwords, and gain deeper access to your accounts.
Step 7: Laundering and Covering Tracks
The scammers typically:
Use temporary domains that disappear within days
Operate through proxy servers
Accept payments through stolen merchant accounts
This makes it difficult for authorities to trace them, which is why prevention is your strongest defense.
What to Do If You Have Fallen Victim to the DHL Scam
If you’ve clicked the link, entered personal information, or made a payment, it’s crucial to act immediately. Here are the steps to minimize the damage:
1. Do Not Panic, But Act Fast
Speed matters. The sooner you respond, the higher your chances of protecting your accounts and finances.
2. Contact Your Bank or Credit Card Company
If you entered payment details:
Inform your bank immediately
Ask them to block or freeze the card
Request a new card
Review your statements for any unauthorized transactions
In many countries, you are protected against fraud if reported promptly.
3. Change Your Passwords
If you used the same email and password combination elsewhere:
Change your email password immediately
Change passwords for any accounts that use the same credentials
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible
Phishers often use stolen email credentials to compromise multiple accounts.
4. Run a Full Antivirus and Anti-Malware Scan
If the scam involved downloading attachments or visiting a suspicious site:
Run a full system scan
Use a reputable security solution (e.g., Bitdefender, ESET, Malwarebytes)
Remove any detected threats
This prevents long-term compromise of your device.
5. Report the Scam to DHL
DHL encourages users to report phishing by forwarding suspicious emails to:
In Romania: Directoratul Național de Securitate Cibernetică (DNSC)
7. Monitor Your Accounts Closely
For the next several weeks:
Watch for any suspicious transactions
Check email accounts for unauthorized login attempts
Consider using a credit freeze or fraud alert if financial information was exposed
8. Warn Friends and Family
If the scammers harvested your contact list, they may use your identity to spread more scams. Let your contacts know not to click on suspicious links from your email or phone number.
Is Your Device Infected? Check for Malware
If your device is running slowly or acting suspicious, it may be infected with malware. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a great option for scanning your device and detecting potential malware or viruses. The free version can efficiently check for and remove many common infections.
Malwarebytes can run on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Depending on which operating system is installed on the device you’re trying to run a Malwarebytes scan, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps.
Malwarebytes For WindowsMalwarebytes For MacMalwarebytes For Android
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Windows to remove malware
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes for Windows
You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Your computer should now be free of trojans, adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
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:
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. 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 “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
Your Mac should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
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.
Scan your phone with Malwarebytes for Android to remove malware
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.
Your phone should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
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.
Recognizing the signs of a fake DHL delivery email is key to staying safe. Here are red flags to look for:
1. Generic Greetings
Fake: “Dear Sir/Madam”
Real DHL emails often use your full name.
2. Suspicious Links
Hover over links without clicking.
If the domain doesn’t end with dhl.com or dhl.de, it’s likely fake.
3. Urgency and Threats
“Your package will be returned if you don’t act now”
“Action required in 24 hours”
Legitimate courier companies do not use scare tactics.
4. Unusual Sender Addresses
Even if it says “DHL”, check the full email address carefully. Scammers often use lookalike domains.
5. Poor Grammar or Awkward Wording
While many phishing emails are well-written, subtle grammar errors or unnatural phrasing often appear.
6. Requests for Payment
DHL never asks for payments or credit card information through unsolicited emails.
7. Attachments or Download Links
Legitimate delivery notices are usually text-based, not attachments.
Real Examples of DHL Phishing Email Subject Lines
Here are some commonly used subject lines seen in phishing campaigns:
“DHL Shipment Notice – Package on Hold”
“Please Update Your Delivery Address”
“Delivery Failed – Action Required”
“Your DHL Package is Waiting for You”
“DHL Express Delivery – Confirm Payment”
“Track Your DHL Shipment Now”
“DHL: Package Will Be Returned If Not Claimed”
If you receive such a message and you weren’t expecting a package, treat it with suspicion.
What to Do If You’re Unsure Whether an Email Is Legitimate
If you receive an email and are unsure whether it’s real or a scam:
Do not click any links or open attachments.
Open a new browser tab and type DHL’s official website address: https://www.dhl.com
Use the official tracking tool on the site by entering a tracking number (if you have one).
Contact DHL customer service directly via their official channels.
If you’re not expecting a package, simply delete the email.
How Companies Are Fighting DHL Phishing Scams
Cybercriminals are constantly evolving, but so are defenses. DHL and cybersecurity firms have been:
Shutting down fake domains through legal action
Implementing advanced email filters to block phishing attempts
Working with ISPs and registrars to limit scam distribution
Providing public alerts and education campaigns
However, technology alone cannot stop phishing. End-user awareness remains critical.
Why This Scam Is So Effective
Several psychological and technical factors make the “DHL Package Is Ready for Delivery” scam so successful:
Trust in a reputable brand (DHL is globally recognized)
High volume of legitimate DHL deliveries
Urgency (fear of losing a parcel)
Well-crafted fake websites
Small “redelivery fee” tricks users into not questioning it
Even security-savvy individuals can fall victim when in a hurry or distracted.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Delivery Scams
Always verify the sender’s email address
Never click on links in unsolicited delivery emails
Bookmark the official DHL website
Use strong and unique passwords for your accounts
Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible
Use security software to detect phishing and malicious sites
Educate family members who may be less tech-savvy
FAQ: DHL Package Is Ready For Delivery Scam
What is the “DHL Package Is Ready For Delivery” scam email?
The “DHL Package Is Ready For Delivery” scam is a phishing scheme that uses fake DHL emails to trick recipients into clicking a fraudulent “Track Parcel” or “Update Delivery Information” button. The goal of the scam is to steal personal information, credit card details, and sometimes even infect devices with malware. These emails are carefully designed to look legitimate, using DHL logos, colors, and wording that create a sense of urgency. Scammers rely on the fact that many people receive legitimate DHL deliveries, making this phishing campaign especially effective.
How can I tell if the DHL email is fake?
There are several warning signs that indicate a fake DHL email. First, the sender’s address usually comes from an unofficial domain, not from dhl.com. Second, the email often uses generic greetings like “Dear Sir/Madam” instead of your full name. Third, the links inside the email redirect to suspicious domains that are slightly misspelled or unrelated to DHL. You may also notice unusual language, spelling errors, or a sense of urgency to take immediate action. If any of these red flags appear, the email is likely a scam.
Why do scammers impersonate DHL?
DHL is one of the most recognizable courier brands in the world, which makes it an attractive target for phishing campaigns. Millions of people receive legitimate shipping notifications daily, so seeing a DHL message doesn’t usually raise suspicion. Scammers take advantage of this trust by mimicking DHL’s design, logos, and communication style to make their fake emails seem genuine. By impersonating a trusted brand, they increase their chances of tricking recipients into revealing sensitive information or making small “delivery fee” payments that lead to credit card theft.
What happens if I click the link in the fake DHL email?
Clicking the link in a phishing email usually redirects you to a fake DHL website. This website may look identical to the real one, but its sole purpose is to collect your personal or financial information. Victims may be asked to enter their name, address, phone number, and credit card details to pay a “re-delivery fee.” In some cases, the website may attempt to install malware on your device or steal login credentials for other accounts. Even if you don’t enter any data, clicking the link can still expose your device to risks, so immediate security steps are recommended.
What should I do if I gave my personal or payment information?
If you entered personal or financial information on a fake DHL website, act quickly. Contact your bank or credit card company immediately to block or replace your card and monitor your account for unauthorized charges. Change your passwords, especially if you use the same credentials for multiple accounts. Enable two-factor authentication to secure your accounts. Run a full antivirus and anti-malware scan to ensure your device is clean. Reporting the phishing attempt to DHL and your national cybercrime authority can help prevent further scams.
Is it dangerous if I only clicked the link but didn’t fill out any information?
Even if you didn’t enter any personal information, clicking the phishing link can still put your device at risk. Some fake websites contain malicious scripts designed to collect data silently or install malware. You should immediately close the site, clear your browser cache, and run a full security scan on your device. It’s also smart to monitor your accounts for suspicious activity over the following weeks.
How can I check if my package is really from DHL?
To verify a legitimate shipment, never rely on links provided in unsolicited emails. Instead, go directly to DHL’s official website by typing www.dhl.com into your browser. Use the official tracking tool and enter the tracking number you received from the sender or online store. You can also contact DHL customer support through official phone numbers or chat channels to confirm if a package is actually on its way.
Does DHL ever ask for personal or payment details by email?
No, DHL does not request sensitive personal information or payment through unsolicited emails or text messages. Legitimate DHL messages may inform you of a delivery or customs process, but they will always direct you to the official DHL domain. If an email asks you to provide credit card numbers, personal details, or click suspicious links, it is almost certainly a phishing attempt.brand with millions of legitimate shipments, making it easier to trick people.
The Bottom Line
The “DHL Package Is Ready For Delivery” email scam is one of the most widespread phishing campaigns today. It uses professional-looking emails and fake websites to steal sensitive information from unsuspecting victims.
To protect yourself:
Never click on links in unsolicited delivery emails
Verify directly with DHL through their official website
Act quickly if you’ve entered personal or financial information
Staying vigilant and informed is the best way to avoid becoming another phishing statistic. Even the most convincing emails can be fakes — always trust your instincts and verify before you click.
How to Stay Safe Online
Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:
Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.
Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.
Be careful when installing programs and apps.
Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."
Install an ad blocker.
Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.
Be careful what you download.
A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.
Be alert for people trying to trick you.
Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.
Back up your data.
Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.
Choose strong passwords.
Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.
Be careful where you click.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
Don't use pirated software.
Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.
To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.
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.
