MEDIUM RISK
Package Delivery Scam
Fake texts claiming USPS, FedEx, or UPS couldn't deliver your package and asking you to click a link to reschedule or pay a fee.
Losses: Part of $470 million in text scam losses (FTC 2024)
Targets: Online shoppers, anyone expecting packages
Updated: 2026-01-06
Also known as: USPS Scam • FedEx Scam • UPS Text Scam • Delivery Smishing
1How It Works
You receive a text or email claiming there's a problem with your package delivery:
"USPS: Your package could not be delivered. Reschedule delivery here: [fake link]"
"FedEx: Delivery failed due to incomplete address. Update info to receive your package: [link]"
**When you click:**
- Fake website asks for personal information
- May request a small "redelivery fee" ($1-3) to capture your credit card
- Some install malware on your device
- Information is used for identity theft or sold
**Timing trick:** Scammers send millions of these texts during peak shopping seasons when people ARE expecting packages.
How Scammers Make Contact
Text messagesEmail
2Warning Signs & Red Flags
- Text from unknown number about package delivery
- Link doesn't go to usps.com, fedex.com, or ups.com
- Asks for payment to receive your package
- No specific tracking number mentioned
- Generic message not mentioning what you ordered
- Creates urgency ("Respond in 24 hours or package returned")
- Asks for information carriers already have (full address, SSN)
3Real-World Example
"I got a text that looked like it was from USPS saying my package couldn't be delivered. I was expecting something from Amazon, so I clicked. The site asked for $1.95 redelivery fee. Two weeks later, someone opened a credit card in my name."
— AARP Fraud Watch Network
4How to Protect Yourself
- Don't click links in delivery texts — track packages on official carrier websites
- USPS, FedEx, and UPS don't charge redelivery fees via text
- Know your tracking numbers — look them up directly on carrier sites
- Be extra cautious during holiday shopping seasons
- Report suspicious texts by forwarding to 7726
- Enable delivery notifications directly from carriers when you order
5What To Do If You're a Victim
- 1If you clicked a link, run antivirus software immediately
- 2If you entered payment info, contact your bank
- 3If you entered personal info, monitor your credit reports
- 4Report to FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- 5Report fake USPS texts to spam@uspis.gov
- 6Report fake FedEx texts to abuse@fedex.com
Report This Scam
?Frequently Asked Questions
What is Package Delivery Scam?
Fake texts claiming USPS, FedEx, or UPS couldn't deliver your package and asking you to click a link to reschedule or pay a fee. You receive a text or email claiming there's a problem with your package delivery:
"USPS: Your package could not be delivered. Reschedule delivery here: [fake link]"
"FedEx: Delivery failed due to incomplete address. Update info to receive your package: [link]"
**When you click:**
- Fake website ...
How common is this type of scam?
Package Delivery Scam is classified as a medium risk threat. Reported losses: Part of $470 million in text scam losses (FTC 2024). This primarily targets Online shoppers, anyone expecting packages.
Can I get my money back?
Recovery depends on how you paid. Credit card payments may be reversed through chargebacks. Wire transfers and cryptocurrency are rarely recoverable. Report immediately to your bank and file complaints with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and FBI IC3 at ic3.gov.
How do I report this?
Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. For internet crimes, file with FBI IC3 at ic3.gov. For identity theft, visit identitytheft.gov. Also contact your local police and your bank.
Sources & References
Related Scams
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