Scammers are aggressively using the Kuwait Post name to send phishing text messages and emails aimed at stealing personal and financial information from unsuspecting victims. These sophisticated scams convince recipients to share confidential details under the guise of a missed parcel delivery or other postage-related issue that requires urgent attention.
This in-depth article will uncover how the Kuwait Post scams operate, red flags to watch for, and most critically, how to protect yourself from being deceived. With more citizens and businesses relying on postal services amidst the pandemic, awareness of these delivery and customs imposter scams is crucial.
Overview of the Kuwait Post Scam
This scam involves fraudulent text messages or emails that appear to come from Kuwait Post about issues with a package delivery or customs fees. The messages are made to look official using the Kuwait Post logo, colors, and messaging style.
Some variant of the following postal-related issues are typically cited:
A parcel is stuck in customs and fees must be paid
There is a pending delivery you must confirm
Your package delivery address needs to be validated
Your shipment has shipping issues that require payment
No matter the story, the scammers posing as Kuwait Post then provide a phone number to call or link to click so the problem can supposedly be resolved. Their ultimate aim is to steal financial and personal information or infect devices with malware.
This scam surged during the pandemic as more citizens shopped online and anxiously awaited postal deliveries. Victims expect parcels and don’t suspect notifications from Kuwait Post are fraudulent.
The sophistication varies. Some scams have typos and inconsistencies, while others can appear very credible, replicating official Kuwait Post fonts, colors and logos. Imposter scams increased so much that Kuwait Post has posted warnings on its website.
Key things to know about the scam:
Uses real Kuwait Post branding – The texts and emails looks like authentic Kuwait Post communications. This fools many people.
Pressures urgent action – Messages often say immediate payment is required or penalties will be incurred. This rushes victims into clicking without thinking.
Directs victims to fake sites – The links and numbers go to convincing sham Kuwait Post pages where users enter personal or financial data.
May include parcel numbers – Fake parcel IDs and details make the scam more believable and personalized.
Originates from burner phones/accounts – Texts come from constantly changing cell numbers and disposable accounts are used for emails.
Seeks sensitive information – Whether through fake sites or calls, the scammers want personal info, bank logins, credit card details, etc.
Preys on parcel anticipation – People expecting a delivery are more likely to fall for notifications about shipping problems from the courier.
This scam has infiltrated Kuwait as more citizens fall victim. But awareness of how to spot fraudulent Kuwait Post communications will curb deception.
How the Kuwait Post Scam Works
Kuwait Post scammers operate through text messages or emails. Here are the step-by-step details on how both versions of the scam unfold:
Kuwait Post SMS Scam
A text message is sent from a phone number disguised as an official notice from Kuwait Post. The number changes regularly to avoid blocking.
The message claims there is an urgent issue with a package delivery using Kuwait Post branding and messaging. Common reasons given are customs fees owed or address confirmation needed.
A link is embedded in the text to supposedly address the delivery problem. The link goes to a fake website impersonating the real Kuwait Post site.
On the phony site, victims are instructed to enter personal information like name, address, ID number, phone, etc. to confirm delivery details. In other cases, financial account info is sought.
The scammers now possess the victim’s sensitive data, either using it directly for identity theft or selling it online. If bank details are given, accounts can be drained.
With the confidential information acquired, the criminals disappear. The temporary number and website leave virtually no trail. The victim’s data is now in the hands of scammers.
Kuwait Post Email Scam
An email is sent to recipients spoofing the legitimate email and website of Kuwait Post. The “From” address mimics Kuwait Post but goes to the scammer.
The email claims the recipient has a pending delivery, but there is a problem needing urgent action. Customs charges, address confirmation, redelivery fees, and shipping issues are commonly cited.
A link within the email leads to a fake Kuwait Post website seeking personal information when entered by victims. In other cases, it may download malware onto the user’s device.
The scam email prompts entry of bank account data, credit card numbers, photo ID, etc. to pay fictional fees – allowing immediate account access.
Along with potential bank theft and malware installation, the scammers obtain personal data like name, phone, ID numbers, address, etc. to facilitate identity fraud.
As with the text scam, the criminals have now acquired sensitive user details through the sham emails and sites. The disposable accounts used make the scammers difficult to trace.
Red Flags of the Scam:
Spelling and grammar mistakes
Threatening urgent calls to action
Requests for financial account information
Links to odd URLs or domain names
Requests to download software
Phone numbers from outside Kuwait
Lack of specific user and shipment details
What to Do if You Have Fallen Victim to the Scam
If you suspect you have been targeted or already fallen victim to a Kuwait Post text or email scam, take these recommended steps:
1. Contact your bank and credit card issuer.
If any financial information was shared, immediately contact your bank and card issuer. They can freeze accounts and block fraudulent charges. The quicker you notify them, the better.
2. Change any compromised passwords.
If you entered login credentials on fake sites or downloaded malware, rapidly change passwords for your email, bank accounts, social media, and other critical accounts. Enable two-factor authentication if possible.
3. Scan devices for malware.
Use quality antivirus software like Norton or McAfee to scan all involved devices for viruses and malware. Remove any infections detected.
4. Place fraud alert on your credit.
Contact credit bureaus to declare fraud alerts for your file. This flags any new activity for review, making it harder for scammers to open accounts in your name.
5. Monitor accounts and credit reports.
Watch bank statements, credit reports, and online logins closely for signs of misuse of your information in the months following the scam targeting you. Proactive monitoring helps.
6. Report the scam.
Alert Kuwait Post about both scam texts and emails by filing a complaint on their website. Also report SMS scams directly to your mobile operator.
7. Document details as evidence.
Retain records like screenshots of scam texts, emails, and sites as proof for claims and investigations. Note relevant dates, phone numbers, messages, losses, etc.
8. Wipe devices completely if severe infection.
For serious malware attacks, fully reset infected devices to factory default settings. This cleans out embedded malware. Reinstall apps afterwards.
9. Seek further help if identity theft occurs.
If scammers misuse your stolen data, file an identity theft report and contact agencies like the Identity Theft Resource Center for extended fraud resolution guidance.
Falling prey to the Kuwait Post scam can create substantial personal and financial troubles. But taking quick and thorough actions can help curb damages and prevent further negative impacts going forward.
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
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
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
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.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, 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:
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.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted 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.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted 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.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kuwait Post Scams
What are Kuwait Post scams?
They are fake text messages and emails sent by scammers impersonating Kuwait Post. They claim issues with deliveries to trick people into providing personal and financial information.
How do I recognize these Kuwait Post scams?
Watch for odd links, urgent threats, spelling/grammar errors, requests for sensitive data, non-Kuwait numbers, missing order details, and other red flags. Verify any suspicions directly with Kuwait Post.
What do the scammers want?
Their aim is to steal identities, drain bank accounts, and install malware using the fraudulent shipping communications. Posing as Kuwait Post lets them elicit sensitive data.
What should I do if I receive a suspicious message?
Do not click links, provide information, make payments, or call numbers provided. Report scam emails to Kuwait Post and text scams to your mobile operator.
What if I already provided information or clicked a link?
Quickly contact your bank, scan devices for malware, enable two-factor authentication on accounts, place fraud alerts with credit bureaus, monitor your credit, and report the scam.
How can I avoid Kuwait Post scams?
Analyze messages closely, look for red flags, contact Kuwait Post to verify concerns, avoid opening attachments/links, and never provide personal or financial data to unconfirmed sources.
How common are these scams?
These scams have surged along with e-commerce and delivery volumes. Scammers increasingly pretend to be Kuwait Post hoping victims anxiously await parcels.
Who is responsible for these scams?
Individual scammers and organized cybercrime rings in Kuwait and abroad run these cons. They are difficult to trace as they use burner phones and fake accounts.
What risks do I face if I provide my information?
Identity theft, bank account draining, credit damage, and device malware infections. Scammers exploit leaked personal and financial data.
Can Kuwait Post help if I’m scammed?
Unfortunately Kuwait Post is not liable, but can provide information to authorities to aid investigations. You must file claims and reports regarding any losses from scams.
How can I protect myself from these scams?
Be vigilant inspecting parcel communications, contact Kuwait Post to verify odd requests, avoid opening attachments/links, and never provide personal or financial information to unconfirmed sources.
The Bottom Line
Scam texts and emails impersonating Kuwait Post are a growing threat that citizens should be vigilant against. These fraudulent shipping notifications are designed to harvest users’ personal details and money.
By learning the scam tactics, recognizing warning signs, and acting fast if targeted, individuals can protect themselves from the havoc of identity theft and bank account draining. The insights provided here offer the awareness needed to avoid becoming another victim of these parcel delivery and customs scams.
Stay alert for questionable digital communications claiming to be from Kuwait Post. Verify any delivery issues directly with them. Follow prudent cyber security habits regarding links, downloads, and providing sensitive information to unconfirmed sources. With proper scam awareness, these frauds can be contained. But it requires an informed public that examines messages critically and understands this threat. Use the knowledge in this article to identify and evade Kuwait Post scams.
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
