FedEx Courier Fraud Strikes Bengaluru: Residents Warned of Impersonation Scam Tactics

Bengaluru residents are falling victim to a sophisticated scam involving impersonation of FedEx employees and law enforcement officials, with the latest victim losing a staggering Rs 1.98 crore.

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Modus Operandi:

• Fake Packages: Victims receive calls from individuals posing as FedEx couriers, claiming to have intercepted a package addressed to them containing illegal substances.
• Cybercrime Transfer: The call is transferred to a “police officer” who accuses the victim of involvement in money laundering linked to the package.
• Financial Manipulation: The victim is pressured into transferring large sums of money to “verify” their innocence, often through sustained Skype calls and confinement in hotel rooms.

Escalating Crisis:

• 163 cases: Bengaluru police reported over 160 FedEx fraud cases this year, resulting in a total loss exceeding Rs 5 crore.
• Nationwide Trend: According to NCRB, Bengaluru accounted for 73.4% of cybercrime cases across 19 major cities in 2022.
• New Scam: The “online job” scam lures victims with fake job opportunities, demanding processing fees after promising substantial earnings.

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Protect Yourself:

• Verify Packages: Always use the official FedEx website to track packages. Don’t click on links from unknown sources.
• Stay Discreet: Never share sensitive information like bank details over the phone, especially with strangers.
• End Suspicious Calls: Don’t engage with callers who make threats or pressure you for money.
• Report Immediately: If you suspect a scam, contact emergency services or visit the nearest cybercrime police station to file a complaint.

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Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to avoid falling victim to these evolving scams.

Additional Information:

• The scam primarily targets individuals with no prior involvement in sending or receiving international packages.
• Scammers often exploit fear and anxiety to coerce victims into making rash decisions.
• Awareness and prevention are crucial to combat this growing threat.

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