You get a call or a message from someone claiming to be a courier agent. They say your parcel is stuck, the address is unclear, urgently verify your info, or delivery needs to be rescheduled. Then they ask you to dial a small code to fix the problem. It feels harmless. You dial it. And just like that, your calls, OTPs, and even WhatsApp codes start going to a scammer instead of you. This is known as the ‘Courier and Code of 21’ scam, and it’s one of the most dangerous phone scams right now because it quietly hands over control of your calls to fraudsters. What is the ‘Code of 21’ scam? This scam tricks people into activating call forwarding on their own phones. Scammers ask you to dial a code that usually looks like this:
*21*XXXXXXXXXX# (where the number is theirs) Once you dial it, all your incoming calls and many verification messages get forwarded to the scammer’s phone, without you realising it. That means: Also read: Got a ‘silent call’ from an unknown number? That complete silence could be a cyber scam
How the scam usually happens (step-by-step) 1. Fake courier call or message You get a call or SMS saying: They often use names of real companies like FedEx, Blue Dart, DTDC, etc. 2. They create urgency They may say:
3. They ask you to dial a code They tell you to dial something starting with: They might say it’s for tracking, location sharing, and delivery confirmation. But in reality, it’s turning on call forwarding to their number. Also read: Top 5 coolest and most innovative gadgets at CES 2026
4. Your calls and OTPs go to them After this: Now they can: And you may not even know what went wrong. Why is this scam so dangerous? Unlike scams that rely on fake links or malicious apps, this fraud exploits a legitimate phone feature, so there is no need to download any application or click on a suspicious link.
The victim unknowingly activates the feature by following the scammer’s instructions, and as a result, many people realise something is wrong only after money has been withdrawn or their accounts have already been compromised. Also read: AI girlfriend breaks up with man after argument over feminism
If you already dialed the code, do this immediately 1. Dial this (##002#) on your phone right now. This cancels all call forwarding on your number. 2. After that: How to report a scam in India If you think you were targeted or scammed: 1. Call Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930 2. File a complaint at: cybercrime.gov.in If a delivery agent ever asks you to dial a code, hang up first, verify later. One small code can quietly open the door to your bank account, your messages, and your social media. Staying alert is the only real delivery confirmation you need.
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