The Central Bank of Kuwait issued a cybersecurity advisory this week warning residents against parcel scam messages that attempt to extract banking credentials through fake delivery notifications, the Arab Times reported. Fraudsters typically send texts claiming a package requires a small fee or verification to be released, directing users to malicious websites. The bank stressed that such unsolicited requests are never made by legitimate financial institutions or delivery services.
The advisory details how scammers impersonate popular courier companies and create urgency by warning that the parcel will be returned if no action is taken. Recipients are prompted to click embedded links or provide personal information under the guise of completing a delivery process. According to the Central Bank of Kuwait, engaging with these messages can lead to theft of one-time passwords and unauthorized account access.
In its statement, the Central Bank of Kuwait advised the public to delete suspicious texts immediately and to verify any genuine delivery matters only through official applications or customer service contacts. The bank further recommended avoiding any sharing of sensitive data such as OTPs or login details via phone or message. Customers should also activate additional security layers on their accounts and review transaction histories frequently for irregularities.
This latest alert follows an awareness video released by the National Cybersecurity Center in April that highlighted similar fraudulent messages, including those referencing shipment packages, suspended accounts or prize wins. The center explained that such communications lure users into clicking links that facilitate theft of bank balances. Local reports at the time noted the video formed part of ongoing public education efforts on digital threats.
The Central Bank of Kuwait’s advisory aligns with a 2023 memorandum of understanding signed with Saudi Arabia to strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity, according to official records. Kuwait has also introduced mandatory biometric verification for many banking transactions in recent years to curb fraud. These steps reflect broader regulatory focus on protecting the financial sector from electronic deception tactics.
Users who suspect they may have responded to a scam message are advised to contact their bank without delay to secure accounts and report the incident. The Central Bank of Kuwait noted that prompt action can help prevent or minimize financial losses. Similar delivery scam warnings have been issued by central banks across the GCC in response to evolving phishing methods.
