Fake Chronopost messages: a scam active before the end-of-year holidays

Fake Chronopost messages: a scam active before the end-of-year holidays

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As the French prepare to celebrate the end-of-year holidays, parcel deliveries reach new heights. However, this time of year is also ripe for scams, notably the “fake Chronopost labels” scam. Faced with the resurgence of this fraud, it is crucial to remain vigilant to avoid the traps set by increasingly sophisticated scammers.

The 3 key pieces of information not to miss

  • Scammers impersonate Chronopost by contacting victims via SMS or email.
  • A payment of 0.99 to 2.99 euros is requested for a supposedly non-compliant label, hiding an attempt to steal banking information.
  • Chronopost never charges fees for a delivery in France and always uses the short number 38004 for its communications.

How the scam works

As the holidays approach, many consumers are targeted by a well-organized scam. Fraudsters contact victims claiming that a “non-compliant label” or “unexpected customs fees” are blocking the delivery of their parcel. They then request a small payment, usually between 0.99 and 2.99 euros.

The link provided in the message directs to a website that perfectly mimics that of Chronopost. Once victims enter their banking information, the scammers can access their accounts and empty them. This technique, although already known, is experiencing a resurgence of activity at the end of the year.

Signs to avoid fraud

A few clues can help detect these scams. Official SMS from Chronopost never include a phone number to call back. Legitimate communications come from the name “Chronopost” and not from a regular mobile number. Moreover, the short number 38004 is the only one used for official messages.

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It is also important to check the website address. Scammers create URLs close to the original, but the real official Chronopost site is www.chronopost.fr. If fees related to customs or international deliveries are requested, any procedure must be carried out via this official address.

Tips to protect yourself

To protect against these scams, it is recommended never to click on suspicious links and never to pay fees without checking on the official Chronopost website. Fraudulent communications can be reported to the competent authorities to prevent others from being trapped.

Chronopost: a key player in logistics in France

Chronopost, a subsidiary of the La Poste group, is a major player in the field of logistics and express delivery in France. Created in 1985, the company has established itself as a reference thanks to its ability to innovate and adapt to new market demands. It offers a wide range of services for professionals and individuals, ensuring fast and secure deliveries both nationally and internationally.

Chronopost prides itself on providing impeccable customer service and constantly works to improve its processes to ensure user satisfaction. However, due to its notoriety, it is often the target of fraudulent imitations, which requires increased vigilance from consumers.


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