Courier scams come in many shapes and sizes
We received the following update from one of our peers and or service providers. With regards for courier company scams. They said, verbatim, that: “Unfortunately this has now become a reality in our industry as well and these fraudsters make an unsolicited call purporting to be from a courier or delivery company. They claim that additional charges are payable on the items before they will be released for delivery. This is not just one individual trying to Solicit money from you, these scammers form part of an integrated network involving teams across the world. Always be vigilant and never let your guard down.”
Which makes sense, because if something seems too good to be true, it usually is. Go with your gut feel. And be sure to read our PSA public service announcement for buying bicycles online. In short, let common sense prevail.
SEVEN TIPS: to Avoid Courier Scams
Courier scams exist and you always need to be alert to this fact. Keep the following in mind when you are approached and you suspect it is a courier scam. Here are seven tips of what you can do to safeguard yourself against courier scams.
1. Do your homework when communicating with someone online
Communicating with a person online does not necessarily mean that you know them, take the time and do some research. Facebook may be quick and easy option to see whether the profile is brand new, or URL renamed, or stock photos used for profile pics, or anything out of the ordinary in background images. Check out the company, CIPC records, linikedin profile, google street view, call their numbers or references. Basically, anything obvious and straightforward to ensure you are dealing with a legitimate party. Check references.
2. Be careful of sharing your personal details
Beware of any requests for your personal details or monies to be paid. Don’t transfer money without genuine paperwork and communication. When in doubt, contact us. Either on email (hello@bicyclecouriers.co.za) or phone (079-507-1231 or 084-555-0041) or business WhatsApp (061-440-1720). Need to speak to a real human being? We’d be happy to talk to you or cross-check details. Safety first.
3. Fraudsters pick on the gullible & vulnerable
Fraudsters will often try and take advantage when you’re in a vulnerable and desperate state, they will try to extract more money from you at any time. It’s the classic old tale of give a finger and they will grab the arm. Please check with friends or peers and be open about what you plan or think so that you can get a second opinion or reality check before it is too late.
4. Think twice when it comes to RED FLAG items
Extra caution needs to be exercised when Bullion, Currency and Jewellery are being shipped – these shipments do raise RED flags – as they are forbidden – so be cautious! Which is why we have a list of exclusions, including for insurance purposes. Right here we focus on the best boxed bicycle courier service in the country and strive to achieve same. Boxed bicycles, not all of the above.
5. Check facts and documentation
Make sure you are dealing with someone who is able to provide documentation with relevant and accurate information pertaining to your shipment and or the information being communicated. We work with accurate and preprinted PDF waybills that are being sent to authorized senders and recipients of bicycles. So that no one can make ad hoc changes to schedules or details.
6. Research the company before transferring funds
Should you be dealing with a Company, then take the time and do the research to ensure that the company is in existence, certified and active prior to any funds transfer. Again, do the basics, pick up the phone, check out the company registration, domain or hosting, ownership, online presence, etc etc. There are many quick and simple things you can do to verify the authenticity of the individual or institution that your are dealing with. And avoid a courier scam.
7. Be on top the rules for local & abroad
When receiving goods from anywhere within SA or cross border, certain Government rules and regulations will always be applicable. Familiarise yourself with these rules, regulations and documentation to ensure that you are not caught by any fraudster. And again, when in doubt, ask. There is no such thing as a dumb question. And we are happy to help where we can. Let’s eliminate these courier scams.
In short
Remember to always keep the following in mind. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Rather be safe than sorry at all times. Check your facts and go into a transaction with eyes wide open. And do make use of the Bikehub pay option if available when buying or selling bicycles online. As it protects both the buyer and the seller. Clever.
And when you are done, use #bicyclecouriers to send your brand new bike from (A) to (B).
