Cyberabad police warn citizens about FedEx hostage scam

Hyderabad: The Cyberabad Police have issued a public warning urging citizens to be vigilant against a growing cyber fraud targeting residents. Scammers are posing as representatives from FedEx, Customs, and law enforcement to manipulate people into believing they’re involved in criminal activity or that packages in their name contain illegal items.

Scam involves psychological manipulation and hostage situations

The FedEx Hostage Scam can escalate into severe psychological manipulation, coercion, and even digital or physical hostage situations.

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Here’s how the scam works:

1. Initial contact: Victims receive calls or messages claiming to be from FedEx, Customs, or law enforcement. They falsely inform victims a package registered under their name contains illegal items and that they’re under investigation.

2. Threats and demands: Scammers impersonating government officials threaten immediate arrest unless victims comply. They may:
o Accuse victims of criminal activity.
o Request personal or financial details for “verification.”
o Demand money transfers to avoid arrest or legal consequences.

3. Hostage situations:
o Digital hostage: Victims may be coerced into isolation, cutting off communication with family and friends. Scammers then instruct them to transfer money or share personal details.

o Psychological Manipulation: Scammers use fear tactics and urgency to pressure victims into acting without verification. This isolation makes them more vulnerable.

Warning signs to watch for:

• Unsolicited calls or messages claiming you are under investigation for a package.
• Demands for immediate payment – Legitimate organisations never ask for money over the phone.
• Pressure to stay isolated – Scammers may instruct you not to inform anyone.
• Suspicious caller ID – Scammers often spoof phone numbers. Verify caller identity.

What to do if you receive a suspicious call:

1. Stay calm: Don’t panic. Resist pressure and take a moment to think.
2. Verify information: Contact FedEx or authorities directly to confirm any package or investigation.
3. Hang up immediately: If you suspect a scam, end the call and block the number.
4. Involve trusted contacts: Inform family or friends if you feel threatened.
5. Report the scam: File a complaint with the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal https://cybercrime.gov.in/.

How to protect yourself:

• Be skeptical of unexpected calls about packages or investigations.
• Never share personal information over the phone.
• Know your rights – Law enforcement follows due process, not phone threats.
• Keep family and friends informed.
• Enable two-factor authentication on your online accounts.

What to do if you have been targeted:

• Seek help immediately – Contact the police or cybercrime experts if threatened or isolated.
• Report the incident: Use a safe way to communicate if you suspect monitoring.
• File a complaint online or call the Cyber Crime Helpline (1930).
• Change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all online accounts.
• Block the scammer’s number and monitor your financial accounts.
Never share personal details or transfer money based on unsolicited calls, especially with threats of arrest. Legitimate authorities never ask for such information over the phone. Stay connected to loved ones and report any suspicious activity immediately.