Security in GLS

Beware of online scams

How to recognise phishing, smishing, quishing and fraudulent communications

Online scams are increasingly common and can occur via email, SMS, WhatsApp and other messaging services.
Scammers may unlawfully use the GLS name and brand to send fraudulent communications and attempt to obtain money, personal data or confidential information. Fraudulent communications may, for example:

· request small payments to “release” a shipment;
· contain links asking you to enter or update personal or banking details;
· use fake attachments or documents;
· display apparently authentic company logos and references;
· come from unrecognised email addresses, phone numbers or accounts.

Scammers are increasingly using QR codes in emails or on fake paper delivery notices. Scanning a suspicious QR code may redirect you to disguised phishing websites. GLS does not ask you to scan QR codes to make payments to release a shipment.

How to protect yourself

Before responding to a communication about a shipment, always make sure it is genuine.
If in doubt:

· carefully check the sender: official GLS emails are sent exclusively from addresses ending in @gls-italy.com. Watch out for similar-looking domains such as @gls-itali.com or @gls-consegne.it;
· do not click on links in suspicious messages;
· do not open or download attachments from unrecognised senders;
· do not provide personal data, login credentials or banking information;
· do not make payments requested through suspicious communications;
· promptly report any fraudulent communications to GLS, attaching the email you received or copying the malicious link into the body of an email sent to cybersec@gls-italy.com.
· beware of messages that create a false sense of urgency (e.g. “Your parcel will be returned to the sender unless you pay within 24 hours”). GLS will never put pressure on you in this way.

Examples of WhatsApp scams

GLS never requests credit card payments via SMS, WhatsApp or email.

Examples of WhatsApp scams

Examples of WhatsApp scams

Examples of WhatsApp scams

Examples of WhatsApp scams

What to do if you realise you have been scammed

Contact your bank immediately to block your card

Change the passwords for your accounts if you have clicked on any suspicious links

Save any malicious emails you receive, and take screenshots of chats, emails, text messages, bank transfer receipts and all contact details relating to the scammer

File a report with the police

Please report the incident to cybersec@gls-italy.com

Tips for online shoppers

It is important to be careful when shopping online too, especially when buying from websites or sellers you do not know:

· preferably shop on reputable websites and check the seller’s information and reviews;
· beware of offers with prices significantly below normal market levels;
· always check the seller and the terms and conditions of purchase;
· check that any amount requested on delivery matches what was agreed at the time of purchase;
· if you have any doubts about the order, the seller or the amount requested, contact the seller before accepting the delivery.

Beware of fake couriers

How fake couriers operate

Scams can also involve people posing as drivers or couriers and pretending to be authorised to make a delivery or collect a shipment.

For example, a fake courier might claim to be replacing your usual driver or say that an error occurred during a previous delivery, and ask you to hand the goods over again.

How to spot a possible fake courier

Any behaviour or circumstances that differ from normal procedures should put you on alert. If in doubt:
· check that the vehicle being used displays the GLS logo;
· check that the driver is wearing a uniform and an identification badge;
· pay particular attention to unusual requests or procedures;
· contact your local GLS depot to verify the delivery or collection;
· do not hand over a shipment again on the basis of an unverified request.

For business customers, where available, it is also advisable to retain CCTV footage relating to suspicious incidents, in compliance with applicable personal data protection laws, as it may be useful for any checks or investigations by the police.
Make a note of any useful information (e.g. vehicle registration numbers, phone numbers, etc.).

Beware of fake job offers

Another method used by scammers is to advertise fake job opportunities as an “agent” or intermediary.
The activity is generally presented as a part-time job and may involve receiving or collecting parcels and then forwarding them to other addresses, including abroad.
These offers may conceal fraudulent activities involving the handling of goods or money of illicit origin.
Before accepting this type of offer, always carefully verify the identity of the person offering the job and the true nature of the work involved. Agreeing to receive or forward goods on behalf of unknown individuals may expose you to legal and financial risks.

GLS is committed to preventing fraud

The safety of our customers and parcel recipients is a priority for us.
GLS continuously monitors reports and incidents relating to fraudulent activities, analysing how scams are carried out. Where necessary, GLS actively cooperates with the police, providing relevant information to support further investigations.

Security is a shared responsibility.
Fraud prevention is everyone’s responsibility.

If you receive suspicious communications or notice suspicious behaviour, always verify the information before taking action and report any unusual situations to us.