Scam Alert: Fraudsters Pose as DHL Directors in Latest Inheritance/ATM Card Swindle
Authorities and consumer protection groups are urging the public to remain vigilant after a new wave of sophisticated email scams promising millions in “inheritance funds” via ATM Visa cards has surfaced.The scam, which uses forged identities of supposed DHL directors, follows a well-worn pattern designed to exploit victims’ hopes of sudden wealth while extracting small upfront payments and personal data.How the Scam WorksVictims receive an email that begins: “Dear Beneficiary, This is to officially inform you that we have written to you before without getting response from you…”The message claims the recipient’s long-delayed inheritance of US$9.5 million has finally been approved and will be delivered as a pre-loaded ATM Visa Card that can be used worldwide. The scammers instruct recipients to: Immediately stop all contact with other “officials” supposedly handling the funds.
Provide detailed personal information including full name, address, phone/WhatsApp number, occupation, age, sex, next of kin, and secondary email.
Pay a $25 “Courier Company clearance requirement fee” via Apple iTunes gift cards or Steam cards before the card can be dispatched.
The email is signed by “Mrs. Jane McLoughlin,” DHL Director, and directs victims to contact her or “Mr. James McLoughlin” at the Gmail address rproffitt03@gmail.com (mailto:rproffitt03@gmail.com).Red Flags That Scream FraudUnsolicited emails promising huge sums of money.
Requests for payment via gift cards or cryptocurrencies (untraceable and irreversible).
Pressure to act quickly and stop communicating with others.
Poor grammar and official-sounding but fake titles.
Use of free email services (Gmail) by supposed high-level directors or couriers.
Demands for extensive personal data early in the process.
Consumer watchdogs emphasize that legitimate banks, governments, or courier companies never ask for payment in gift cards to release funds.
Official Warning“This is a textbook advance-fee fraud,” said a spokesperson for international cybercrime awareness groups.
“Once victims send the small ‘clearance fee’ and their personal details, scammers either disappear or attempt larger extortion using the stolen information.”Victims who have already engaged with the scammers are advised to: Stop all communication immediately.
Do not send any money or gift cards.
Report the email to their national fraud reporting center (e.g., FTC in the US, Action Fraud in the UK, or local cybercrime units).
Monitor bank accounts and credit reports for suspicious activity.
Forward the scam email to spam@uce.gov or equivalent local authorities.
Protect YourselfNever send money to receive money.
Real inheritances or lottery winnings do not require upfront fees.
Verify any unexpected financial claims directly through official channels, never through email contacts provided in the message.If you or someone you know has received this email, treat it as a scam and delete it. Sharing this warning may help prevent others from falling victim to these heartless fraudsters.
Stay safe and stay skeptical.
