How-to guide
Is that delivery text a scam?
Fake delivery texts claim a package is "on hold" and ask for a small fee or address confirmation — to steal your card details. Real couriers don't work this way.
Signs of a fake delivery text
These texts impersonate USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and others. The tells:
- A fee to "redeliver", "release", or "reschedule" a parcel.
- A link to a site that isn't the courier's real domain.
- You weren't expecting a parcel, or the tracking number looks fake.
- Urgency: "within 24 hours or it will be returned".
Check it the right way
Track parcels only in the courier's official app or by typing its website yourself. Real carriers include delivery updates in the order you placed — they don't text pay-now links. Run the text through Scam Doctor before you pay anything.
Frequently asked questions
Does USPS or UPS ever text you to pay a fee?
No. Carriers do not text links demanding a redelivery or customs fee. Any such text is a scam.
I paid the fee — what now?
Contact your bank or card issuer right away to stop the charge and watch for further fraud. Change any password you entered.