Scammers constantly create new ways to trick unsuspecting victims, and the latest email scam circulating is no exception. Below is a detailed breakdown of a recent scam email that falsely claims to offer a high-value ATM card delivery.
The Scam Email Breakdown
Original Scam Email:
From:
Mrs.Jean Wood <[email protected]>
Sent: 16 February 2025 02:16
Subject:I am giving you 100% guarantee, within 24 hoursDHL Office and Customs House-Douglas Main, Douglas, Arizona
City of Douglas, 425 E 10th Street, Douglas, AZ 85607
Email:[email protected]Dear Customer,
Once again, I have tried all my possible best to see that your ATM VISA CARD will be successfully airlifted and safely delivered to your address by tomorrow as planned. I resolved all obstacles and problems to ensure your ATM CARD is insured as required by the United States DHL Office.
I tried my best and raised $100 out of the $150.00 needed by the United States DHL Office for the Clearance Certificate of your ATM CARD. Since you have not been able to raise the $100.00, you now only need to send $50.00. The Director of the United States DHL Office promised that he will give you tracking information so you can monitor your package while it is in transit.
You must send the remaining $50.00 today. If you pay immediately, your ATM CARD will be dispatched this evening. I assure you that your ATM CARD will arrive tomorrow by 4:00 PM.
The amount credited on the card is $12 million dollars, and you can withdraw $20,000 per day until the $12 million is fully withdrawn. Once you send the $50.00 via iTunes gift card or eBay gift card, forward the payment receipt details to me for acknowledgment.
I am giving you 100% guarantee, within 24 hours.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Johnson Abor
Post Office Manager
United States DHL Office
Why This Email is a Scam
- Suspicious Sender Address: The email originates from a Gmail account rather than an official DHL or USPS email. A legitimate postal service would never use a personal email account for official communication.
- Unrealistic Offer: The email promises an ATM card preloaded with $12 million — an absurdly large sum. No financial institution distributes funds this way.
- Emotional Manipulation: The email urges immediate payment, pressuring victims to act without thinking clearly.
- Gift Card Payment Request: Scammers frequently request gift cards because they are difficult to trace and nearly impossible to recover once redeemed. Legitimate institutions never demand payment this way.
- Poor Grammar and Formatting: The email contains odd phrasing, grammatical errors, and inconsistent formatting — clear signs of a scam.
What to Do If You Receive This Email
- Do Not Respond. Ignore the email and avoid clicking any links or downloading attachments.
- Report the Email. Forward the email to [email protected] (UK) or your country’s relevant cybercrime authority.
- Warn Others. Share this information with friends, family, and online communities to help prevent others from falling victim.
- Secure Your Accounts. If you’ve accidentally shared personal information, change your passwords immediately and monitor your financial accounts for suspicious activity.
Key Takeaway
Scammers often rely on urgent language and promises of large payouts to lure victims. If an email asks you to send money via gift cards or claims you’re entitled to an unrealistic payout, it’s almost certainly a scam. Stay vigilant and always verify suspicious messages through trusted sources.