SCAM AWARENESSPackage delivery texts
Package delivery text scams pretend to be from a shipping carrier or the postal service. They say a package couldn't be delivered and ask you to confirm your address or pay a small fee. The link goes to a fake site that steals your card number and personal information, or tries to put harmful software on your phone.
How this scam works
Because so many people shop online, a text about a delayed package feels believable. The message says delivery failed because of a missing apartment number, an incomplete address, or an unpaid shipping fee. It tells you to tap a link within a day or two or the package will be returned.
The link opens a page that looks like a carrier's tracking site. It asks for your name, address, phone number and date of birth, then a small fee paid by card. Once scammers have your card number, they may charge it again or sell it. Some versions ask you to reply "Y" first, which tells the scammer your number is active and can make the link clickable.
What it can look like
EXAMPLE · NOT A REAL MESSAGEYour package could not be delivered due to an incomplete address. Please update your details within 24 hours or it will be returned to sender. A $1.99 redelivery fee applies: [link]
Warning signs
- You weren't expecting a package, or the text doesn't say what was shipped
- A request for a small fee to redeliver or release a package
- A short deadline before the package is "returned"
- A link that doesn't match the carrier's real website
- A request to reply "Y" or to copy the link into your browser
- Asking for your date of birth or card number to "confirm" an address
How to protect yourself
- Track packages only through the store where you ordered or the carrier's official app or website.
- Don't tap links in delivery texts you didn't sign up for.
- Know that the U.S. Postal Inspection Service says USPS doesn't send texts unless you requested tracking, and those texts won't contain links.
- Don't reply to unknown texts, even to say "stop."
- Use your phone's "report junk" option to report the text, then delete it.
If you already responded
- If you paid a fee, call the number on the back of your card, dispute the charge, and ask for a new card.
- Review your statements for small test charges or purchases you didn't make.
- If you shared your date of birth, address or other ID details, use IdentityTheft.gov to make a recovery plan.
- If you installed an app from the link, remove it and run your phone's security updates.
- Report the text to the FTC, and to the Postal Inspection Service if it claimed to be USPS.
Get step-by-step recovery help →
Where to report it
- U.S. Postal Inspection Service: report a crime ↗
- Report fraud to the FTC ↗
- File a complaint with the FBI's IC3 ↗
Common questions
Does USPS text you about a missed delivery?
According to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, USPS does not send texts or emails unless you first signed up for tracking with a tracking number, and those messages will not contain a link. A surprise USPS text with a link is a strong sign of a scam.
Why would a scammer ask for such a small fee?
The small amount makes people relax and pay without thinking. What the scammer really wants is your full card number, expiration date and security code, plus personal details. With those, they can make larger purchases, sell your card information, or try to open accounts in your name.
How can I safely check on a package?
Go to the store where you placed the order and look at your order history, or open the carrier's official app or website by typing the address yourself. Enter the tracking number from your order confirmation. Never use a tracking link that arrived in an unexpected text.