Package Delivery Impersonation Scams on the Rise in Indonesia

Scammers in Indonesia are increasingly impersonating delivery companies through WhatsApp and phone calls, using personal information like names and order details to gain trust. They pressure victims to process refunds outside official platforms and provide banking details, sometimes escalating to threats of legal involvement based on fabricated criminal allegations.

Overview

Scammers in Indonesia are increasingly impersonating delivery companies to defraud victims. Perpetrators contact victims via WhatsApp or phone, claiming issues with shipments and using personal details to establish credibility.

How the Scams Work

Pattern 1: Refund Fraud

Criminals posing as couriers claim there's a problem with the victim's package. They often know the victim's name and order details, enhancing credibility. They then request bank account numbers under the pretense of processing a refund.

When victims suggest using the official e-commerce platform (such as Shopee) for the refund, scammers insist their specific procedure must be followed and apply pressure to conduct the transaction outside official channels.

Pattern 2: Extortion and Blackmail

More sophisticated scams involve multiple calls from different numbers. Initial contact mimics courier companies mentioning incomplete address information. Follow-up calls pose as confirmation, then shift to exploiting personal data.

Scammers fabricate connections between the victim's information and criminal records, claiming involvement in drug-related crimes and threatening arrest. They demand video calls to "verify" the victim's identity, using legal consequences as leverage.

Warning Signs and Prevention

Verify Before Acting

Confirm requests allegedly from delivery companies, banks, or government agencies through official apps, websites, or authorized customer service numbers
Never accept instructions from unverified sources

Never Share This Information

One-Time Passwords (OTPs) or PINs
Passwords
Bank account numbers
ID card numbers
Any other personal data

When Pressured

Scammers use urgency and fear to force quick decisions. If you receive threatening calls or rushed demands, hang up and independently verify through official channels.

If You've Been Defrauded

Save all conversation records and screenshots
Document the scammer's phone number and any account numbers mentioned
Create a timeline of events

Report financial fraud to Indonesia Anti-Scam Centre (IASC) or the National Police of Indonesia (Polri) with all evidence.