HELD HOSTAGE:
Breaking Free From
Delivery Scams and Extortion Fees
The Growing Concern of Delivery Scams
Imagine tracking your parcel, only to find it's suddenly stopped overseas. Then you receive an unexpected call demanding a large sum of money to release it — often with no official explanation or documentation. This distressing scenario is becoming increasingly common for consumers worldwide.
At the Consumer Protection Bureau (CPB), we have observed a troubling rise in complaints about delivery-related scams and unfair practices. Recently, we assisted a consumer whose shipment was allegedly held at an airport, with unidentified individuals demanding £5,500 for "tariffs" — without providing any paperwork or legitimate proof.
Common Delivery Issues You Should Be Aware Of
Whether you are ordering goods online or shipping belongings internationally, you might encounter these problematic practices:
Unfair Tactics On The Rise
- Surprise charges after dispatch: Companies or scammers introducing fees that were not disclosed at purchase
- Fabricated customs or tariff demands: False claims about regulatory fees, often requested through unofficial channels
- Package retention without justification: Deliveries inexplicably delayed or held hostage until additional payments are made
- Communication blackouts: Sudden lack of response when you attempt to inquire about unexpected issues
- Pressure tactics from unknown "agents": Urgent calls or messages from individuals claiming to represent delivery services
What makes these practices particularly concerning is that they often target consumers at their most vulnerable—when they're eagerly awaiting important packages and may feel pressured to comply with demands to avoid further delays.
How the Consumer Protection Bureau Can Help
At the Consumer Protection Bureau, we consistently help consumers meeting these challenging situations on daily basis. Our support includes:
- Case assessment and evaluation to understand the legitimacy of demands
- Direct intervention on your behalf
- Strategic advice on appropriate response measures
- Assistance with refund claims and dispute resolution
- Connection with relevant authorities when fraud is suspected
Our services operate on a small annual membership fee, providing you with ongoing consumer protection support and peace of mind when dealing with international deliveries and online purchases.
Protecting Yourself: Essential Steps
If you find yourself facing suspicious delivery demands or unexpected fees, follow these crucial steps:
- Never make immediate payments without receiving formal written documentation
- Document all communication including names, times, and contact information
- Verify tracking information only through official channels such as the courier's legitimate website
- Contact CPB for guidance before responding to unexpected demands
- Report suspicious activity to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) and relevant authorities
When to Be Especially Vigilant
Be particularly cautious when:
- The communication comes from an unfamiliar phone number or email address
- There is pressure to pay immediately or face severe consequences
- You are directed to make payments through unconventional methods (bank transfers, gift cards, etc.)
- The amount requested seems disproportionate to the value of your shipment
- Documentation provided contains grammatical errors or appears unprofessional
Know Your Rights as a Consumer
If you are based in the UK, your consumer rights are protected under several important pieces of legislation, including the Consumer Rights Act 2015. These laws ensure that you are entitled to:
- Transparent pricing information before completing any purchase
- Protection from unfair contract terms and hidden fees that were not clearly disclosed
- The right to challenge or cancel transactions where terms were not properly communicated
- Recourse when dealing with poor or fraudulent delivery services
The law is clear: no company or third party should demand additional payments without proper documentation or legitimate legal justification. When they do, they are likely violating consumer protection regulations.
Real-Life Impact: Kery T’s Story
"I was trying to get in touch with someone about my belongings that were
being shipped through Delivery Express World. I had been tracking my package
when it suddenly stopped moving. Then I received a call from a man claiming
that the shipment was being held at Romania Airport. He said I needed to pay
£5,500 to have it returned to the delivery company. When I refused, he told
me it had to do with tariffs. I found the whole situation completely
outrageous."
— Kery L.
Kery did the right thing by not paying the amount immediately. With no documentation or verification, the demand raised serious red flags. Cases like this highlight how delivery scams can be both financially and emotionally distressing — especially when consumers feel powerless or unsure of their legal standing.
Take Action to Protect Your Rights
When your delivery experience turns stressful or suspicious, remember that you don't have to face the problem alone. These situations can be frustrating and confusing, but with proper support and knowledge of your rights, you can effectively respond.
Consumer Protection Bureau stands ready to advocate for your consumer rights, hold companies accountable for unfair practices, and ensure your concerns receive the attention they deserve.
If you are currently experiencing delivery issues or have questions about your rights,
Contact Us
If you’ve questions about your rights, reach out to us:
- +44 (0)2035854002
- info@consumerprotectionbureau.co.uk
The Consumer Protection Bureau is engaged to safeguarding consumer rights and promoting fair business practices. Our expert advisors are here to help you with any complex consumer issues and find effective resolutions.
