Description

Tracking number before getting payment

### Tracking Number Before Receiving Payment

#### Beware of Advanced Shipping Fees Before Payment

Hello and welcome to my blog! Today, I will be discussing an issue that has been generating a lot of buzz lately: buyers receiving emails from shipping companies asking for shipping fees payment before the item is even shipped. This can appear highly suspicious, especially when the email arrives even before the item has been dispatched.

#### The PayPal Example

This article is dedicated to a reader who asked me the following question: “Is it scandalous to receive a tracking number before I have paid the shipping fees? I received an email with a tracking number from PayPal, and I am confused!”

#### The Fraud Scheme Explained

The fraud scheme is rather straightforward. The fraudster sends you an email demanding that you pay the shipping fees prior to receiving the package, often with a convincing tone, possibly making you believe your goods are already on their way.

A tracking number is provided, which might make you think your package is indeed in transit.

#### Red Flags to Look Out For

There are some signs you should not overlook:

– You have never done business with the company sending the email.
– The email is vague about the shipping fees’ amount.
– The tracking number seems suspicious or you deny ever placing an order.
– The payment request is for online payment or bank transfer.

#### Protecting Online Buyers

If you find yourself in such a situation, it is crucial to stay calm and verify the provided information. Here are a few steps:

– Verify your order: was it actually placed?
– Verify the tracking number: is it legitimate?
– Request clarification: get more information from the company.
– Do not pay shipping fees until you have confirmation that your order is in transit.

#### The Good News

Payment platforms like PayPal have put measures in place to prevent this type of fraud. Do not hesitate to contact the payment platform if you suspect something is amiss.

#### My Advice

I highly recommend being cautious when shopping online and always verifying the information provided. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to ask for clarifications. You can also follow my blog to stay informed about the latest developments in online security.

That’s all I have for now. Feel free to leave your comments if you have remarks or questions.

#### Conclusion

In today’s digital age, being aware of online scams and how to protect yourself is crucial. Understanding how to spot red flags and where to find reliable information can help safeguard your financial security and peace of mind. Stay vigilant and happy shopping!