Main image via Snopes + Mental Floss
Who goes out to shop anymore when you can shop online, right?
With the current pandemic, many of us have turned to online shopping to reduce the need of going out and tbh, it’s fun, easy and can be done from anywhere!
One of the downsides of online shopping however, is the amount of packaging that’s used and unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of all the empty delivery packaging.
via GIPHY
The excitement of finally receiving your package can sometimes distract you from taking proper safety measures.
Yes, wiping down and sanitising your packages is important, but it’s also super important to find a way to blur out or remove your personal details before throwing away the packaging.
Recently, a video has been making its way around and it features an unidentified scammer retrieving an individual’s carelessly discarded packaging, and in the process, the victim’s name, phone number and address as well.
The video then shows what happens when the scammer has access to the victim’s personal information and it includes the victim’s being threatened and her family member losing RM500.
In response to the video, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has issued a warning to members of the public to be vigilant when throwing away their empty delivery packaging as scammers can easily steal personal information.
In a statement by Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department director Datuk Zainuddin Yaacob, he shared that although the authorities have yet to receive any official reports of scammers stealing delivery packaging, they will be conducting investigations under Section 420 of the Penal Code which stipulates that an individual could face a 10-year prison sentence and caning for such offences.
The public has been urged to lodge a police report if they unfortunately fall victim to such a scam. The police report will be able to help with investigations.
SIARAN MEDIA PENGARAH JABATAN SIASATAN JENAYAH KOMERSIL "Melindungi Maklumat Peribadi"
Posted by Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah Komersil - JSJK PDRM on Sunday, 13 December 2020
Members of the public have also been reminded to be aware and conscious of how they discard delivery packages or envelopes with personal details on them.
If you’re expecting a delivery when you’re not at home, be sure that your family members are aware of any deliveries and provide them with any details, especially regarding payment.
The public are also reminded to not make any payments to delivery personnel without first verifying the details.
via GIPHY
While you enjoy your shopping, please be sure to take a few extra steps in ensuring your personal information’s safety.
Black out your personal information with a dark marker or even cut out your info and shred the pieces! Do whatever you can to make sure no one gets your personal information without your consent!
Stay safe while you shop!
Share this with someone who always carelessly disposes their delivery packaging!
Info via The Star