“Kings of Scam” – the business of fake package SMS messages
One text message and one click. Credit card details are gone. What seems like a harmless notification from DHL is actually part of a global fraud scheme.
The new BR documentary series "Kings of Scam - He who clicks, loses" now reveals for the first time who is behind it.
What's behind the package SMS messages?
Almost everyone is familiar with them: text messages that claim to be from DHL, Hermes or other parcel services.
The message sounds urgent, the deadline is short: "Please confirm your address within 12 hours." And the link leads straight into a trap. What seems harmless is in reality the gateway to a highly professional, organized cybercrime scheme.
Hundreds of thousands of people worldwide are killed this way every year. Credit card details stolen. The perpetrators work with sophisticated tools, clear structures, and a frightening amount of routine.
A software called Magic Cat
The investigation focuses on a software program called "Magic Cat." With it, practically anyone can become a professional scammer in a very short time.
No in-depth technical knowledge is required, but plenty of criminal energy is.
The business is worth billions, and the lifestyle of the people behind it reflects this: luxury, anonymity, and a network that spans several continents.
Norwegians set the ball rolling
The starting point of the investigation is unusual: Two Norwegian hackers themselves receive one of these fraudulent SMS messages – and decide to strike back.
They penetrate deep into the systems of cybercriminals and stumble upon shocking figures: 880.000 stolen credit card data records, including data from German victims.
A saleswoman, a teacher and a managing director, even a former federal minister – the list shows that really no one is immune.
The investigation team's trail leads them via an internal Telegram group to China, Thailand and the USA.
Three episodes, one investigative team
“Kings of Scam – He who clicks, loses” is a three-part documentary series produced by Bayerischer Rundfunk.
High-quality images, exclusive interviews and modern motion design transform this complex topic into a captivating viewing experience.
Host Julia Schweinberger is herself part of the research team and accompanies the viewers through the investigations – authentic and close to the action.
All episodes will be available in the ARD Mediathek from April 1, 2026. This is part of the new investigative format "Team.Recherche".
How to protect yourself from package phishing
Anyone receiving such messages should be suspicious:
◉ Never click on links in unknown text messages.
◉ Parcel shipments Always track directly via the official website of the shipping provider.
◉ Report suspicious messages to the consumer protection agency or the BSI.
◉ If in doubt: Google the sender's number or contact the parcel service provider's hotline.
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