Fake Package Delivery Text Scam: How to Spot It and Check Your Package

"Your package is on hold. Pay a small fee to redeliver." Fake delivery texts spike every holiday season. The link leads to a page that steals your card details. Here is how to tell, and how to check the real status of your package.

1. What the fake text says

It claims an address problem, a missed delivery or a small fee, and gives you a link. Some include a real-looking tracking number. The urgency is the trick.

2. USPS texts never have links

The US Postal Inspection Service says USPS only texts you if you requested tracking updates with a tracking number, and those texts never contain a link.

3. Check the real status yourself

Open the carrier's app (USPS, UPS, FedEx, Amazon) or type their website yourself and paste the tracking number from your order confirmation, not from the text.

usps.com  ·  ups.com  ·  fedex.com  ·  amazon.com/orders

4. Report and delete

Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM). For USPS fakes you can also email spam@uspis.gov with a screenshot. Then delete it.

Forward to: 7726

Related guides

How to spot a scam text: deciusac.com/tutorials/spot-scam-text. How to check a link before you click: deciusac.com/tutorials/check-link-before-you-click.

FAQ

I already clicked the link. What now?

Close the page and do not enter anything. If you typed a password, change it on the real site and turn on two-step verification. If you entered card or bank details, call your bank using the number on your card. Then report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Why do I get these when I didn't order anything?

Scammers send them to huge lists of numbers. During the holidays many people are waiting for a package, so some will tap.

Does UPS or FedEx ask for redelivery fees by text?

Treat any text asking you to pay a fee through a link as a scam. Check in the carrier's own app or website instead.