Royal Mail issues warning over red item being posted to UK homes

Royal Mail issues warning over red item being posted to UK homes Homeowners should be aware that these 'fake' items could cost people People up and down the country are being urged by Royal Mail to be on alert if an unexpected red slip appears through their letterbox. While most are perfectly legitimate, some could bring danger to your doorstep. Royal Mail delivers to approximately 32 million homes and businesses nationwide, with deliveries made six days a week - meaning millions of letters and parcels pass through its network. As the UK's largest delivery provider, figures repeatedly show it is the brand most commonly targeted by scammers. Fraudsters are believed to be dropping cards through letterboxes that appear almost indistinguishable from authentic Royal Mail delivery notices. More recent versions include bogus QR codes or links prompting recipients to pay a nominal 'redelivery' or 'customs' charge. Scanning the code directs victims to a counterfeit website designed to mimic the official Royal Mail platform. Rather than facilitating a delivery, the site discreetly harvests bank details as soon as they are submitted. In a recent TikTok video, Royal Mail questions whether viewers have lately received one of the firm's redesigned 'Something For You' cards through their door. While the majority are legitimate, some of these notifications have been weaponised to dupe unsuspecting individuals into surrendering personal information, reports the Express. Issuing an urgent warning, the social media post says: "Scam texts, emails, websites and cards can look convincing. They often claim there's an issue with your parcel and pressure you to act fast. Before you click a link, scan a QR code or make a payment, take a moment to check for the warning signs." Royal Mail confirms that genuine 'Something For You' cards are left following a failed delivery attempt by a postie. These always feature a QR code to help you manage the next steps of getting your delivery. The postal service advises: "If you're unsure, don't click any links or scan any QR codes. Instead, go directly to our website or app where you can enter your reference number to track your item and find the latest delivery information." Royal Mail acknowledges that on occasion customers may be required to pay a fee, for instance, if insufficient postage was applied, but this will result in a separate grey-coloured 'fee to pay card'. A standard red slip will never request payment. Grey cards will direct you to settle any charges in person at a Post Office branch, rather than demanding online card payments via text messages, email links, or QR codes. What to do if you receive something suspicious Royal Mail advises: "If you think you have been given a suspicious 'Something For You' card, take a photo of it and email it to [email protected]. If you clicked a link, shared personal information or made a payment, report it to Action Fraud immediately." Those living in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland can submit a report online or by ringing 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, fraud reports are handled via the 101 line. Citizen's Advice adds: "Do not feel embarrassed about reporting a scam. Scammers are clever, and scams can happen to anyone. Reporting a scam helps track down and stop scammers. This prevents other people from being scammed."