Medium riskDelivery & Postal Scams

Parcel Locker Scam

This scam sends fake parcel-locker notifications with a link or 'pickup code', aiming to phish your details, or tries to obtain your genuine locker code so a scammer can collect your parcel.

Quick verdict

Risk level
Medium risk
Scam type
Delivery impersonation (locker fraud)
Main red flag
A locker 'pickup' text with a link to verify details or a request to share your code.
What to do first
Do not share pickup codes or tap links; use the courier's official app to collect.

What this scam usually looks like

This scam sends fake parcel-locker notifications with a link or 'pickup code', aiming to phish your details, or tries to obtain your genuine locker code so a scammer can collect your parcel.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'Your parcel is ready at the locker. Verify your identity to receive your pickup code: [suspicious link]' or 'Reply with your locker code to confirm collection.'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A locker notice you cannot match to a real order
  • A link to 'verify identity' before getting a code
  • A request to share your pickup code with anyone
  • A web address that is not the courier's official site
  • Pressure that the parcel will be returned

What to do

  • Use the courier's official app to view locker collections and codes
  • Never share your pickup code with anyone
  • Verify any delivery through official tracking
  • Report and delete suspicious messages

If you already clicked or replied

  • Do not enter personal or card details on the page
  • If you shared a code, contact the courier as the parcel may be at risk
  • Change passwords if you entered a login
  • Watch your statements if you entered card details

What not to do

  • Do not share locker pickup codes
  • Do not verify identity through a text link
  • Do not assume the notice is real without checking

Similar scams

High risk Delivery

Fake Delivery Text Scam

This scam impersonates a courier with a missed-delivery text and a link to a fake page that asks for a fee or your personal and card details.
High risk Delivery

Address Confirmation Delivery Scam

This scam claims a parcel cannot be delivered until you 'confirm' or 'update' your address through a link, which leads to a page that collects your personal details and sometimes a small card payment.
Medium risk Online Shopping

Fake Tracking Update Scam

After placing an order, or sometimes out of nowhere, you receive an email or text styled as a retailer's own order-tracking update, often flagging a 'delivery exception' or 'parcel on hold'. A link leads to a page that mimics the shop's tracking area and asks for a small fee or your account login to 'release' the parcel. Unlike generic courier-impersonation texts, this version copies the retailer's branding and order flow, which can make a fake update look convincing if you are expecting a delivery.

Frequently asked questions

Should I ever share a locker pickup code?
No. Your pickup code is what releases the parcel. Sharing it could let a scammer collect your delivery. Use the courier's official app instead.
The text says I must verify before getting a code. Is that normal?
Genuine collections are handled in the courier's app. A link demanding identity verification before a code is a phishing sign.
I shared my code. What now?
Contact the courier promptly, as the parcel may be collected by someone else, and report the message.
How do I collect safely?
Track and collect through the courier's official app, keep your code private, and verify any unexpected notice directly.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.