Ohio consumers warned about package delivery hoax

COLUMBUS — As holiday season shopping reaches its peak and vast numbers of Ohioans are awaiting and receiving package deliveries, Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray today warned consumers to keep a sharp eye out for phony package delivery postcards being sent to consumers around the state.

Some Ohioans already have received the postcards, which say, "pickup notice" and "sorry we missed you!" Such cards can list a package number and an 800 phone number for consumers to call to schedule a pickup. When consumers call, however, they find out that there is no real parcel to be delivered; instead, the notice was just a marketing ploy.

"The company never intends to deliver a package to the consumer. It's just a trick to get consumers to call," Attorney General Cordray said. "What makes this especially deceptive is that it's occurring during one of the busiest times of year for sending and receiving packages. It's not uncommon for consumers to receive package notices during the holidays."

Consumers who receive an unexpected package notice in the mail should research the delivery company before responding to the notice. Check the company's reputation with the Better Business Bureau and the Attorney General's Office. If it seems suspicious, don't trust it.

If you receive a questionable notice of this sort, report it to Attorney General Cordray's office at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or by calling (800) 282-0515.