Phishing Alert – Be Aware of Package Delivery Text Scams

Sept. 15, 2023
Print | PDF

ICT has received reports of SMS phishing attempts being sent to Laurier students. The sender is impersonating Canada Post and asking recipients to click a link to pay fees to collect a package. These messages aim to steal personal information and/or payment card details.   

Identifying phishing attempts at the beginning of the term can be difficult, especially if you are waiting for a package notification from the Hawk Shop or from the Intelligent Lockers in the Concourse (Waterloo) and in the Research and Academic Centre, East Wing (Brantford).  

Here is some information to help you identify a potential phishing message: 

Canada Post 

  • Canada Post will leave a delivery notice card at your door or in your mailbox – they will not reach out to you via email, text, or voice message unless you request additional contact. 
  • Canada Post does not send unsolicited messages requesting your personal or financial information (e.g., credit card numbers, account or invoice numbers, addresses, passwords, etc.) 
  • If you are unsure about a message you’ve received about your package, use Canada Post’s tracking tool at canadapost.ca to check on your package’s delivery status. 

The Hawk Shop 

  • The Hawk Shop does not text students when incoming purchases or packages have arrived. Notifications will be sent through official Laurier channels such as your student email address.   
  • If you’re unsure about a message you’ve received about your package, contact The Hawk Shop for clarification.  

What To Do If You Receive a Phishing Text 

If you believe that a text message is a potential phishing attempt, forward the message to 7726 (SPAM) – this contact number is shared by several mobile providers and is used to identify and stop mass phishing attempts.   

If you think you've fallen victim to a scam, report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by calling 1-888-495-8501 or visit their website.

Please contact the ICT Service Desk if you have further questions or concerns regarding this message.