Fake Tracking Scam
This complaint covers two distinct problems: a genuine order marked 'delivered' by the courier when it actually wasn't (a logistics/fraud issue with the delivery partner), and unsolicited SMS/WhatsApp messages with fake tracking links designed purely to phish your personal or banking details.
What Is It
False 'delivered' status can result from delivery agent fraud (marking it delivered to meet targets without actually attempting delivery) or misdelivery to the wrong address without correction. Fake tracking link SMS messages, on the other hand, are pure phishing — the link leads to a fraudulent page designed to steal card/banking details under the guise of a 'small customs fee' or 'redelivery charge'.
When To Use It
Report if: your order shows 'delivered' but you genuinely never received it; or you received an unsolicited SMS/WhatsApp with a tracking/redelivery link asking for payment or personal details you didn't expect.
Step-by-Step Process
- 1Never click links in unsolicited delivery SMS messages — verify tracking only through the platform's official app or website.
- 2For a false 'delivered' status, immediately raise a 'not received' dispute with the platform, requesting the courier's proof-of-delivery (signature/photo).
- 3If the courier's proof-of-delivery shows a different address, signature, or no evidence at all, this strongly supports your claim for a refund/reshipment.
- 4If you clicked a phishing link and entered any banking details, contact your bank immediately to block the card/account.
- 5File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in for the phishing attempt, and with the platform for the false delivery status.
Documents Required
- Order ID and tracking screenshot showing 'delivered' status
- Screenshot of the phishing SMS/link if applicable
- Courier's proof-of-delivery request/response
- Bank statement if any payment was made via a phishing link
Fees
Free through both platform escalation and cybercrime.gov.in.
Processing Time
Platform investigation into false delivery status: 1-2 weeks. Cybercrime/bank fraud response: fastest within 24-72 hours of any financial loss.
Important Tips
- Always verify delivery/tracking status only through the platform's own app, never through a link received via SMS or WhatsApp.
- Genuine courier redelivery or customs charges are never collected via a link in an SMS asking for card details.