With millions of packages delivered each year, scam artists and thieves have developed many ways to steal from shoppers.
Got a text about your order? Be cautious.
For years now, some consumers have been getting text messages stating that a major delivery carrier needs them to "update delivery preferences" on a package by clicking a link. The problem? The texts are scams, and the links result in the theft of personal information, money, or both.
What you'll learn:
- How to recognize fake texts, emails, and missed delivery notices.
- Why package theft and delivery scams spike during busy shopping seasons.
- Smart strategies to keep your deliveries safe and secure.
Delivery scams and theft are particularly prevalent during the holidays when more packages are shipped, but they can happen year-round. Scammers are hoping shoppers are busy or distracted and will act without thinking.
Popular delivery scams
1. Phishing messages posing as delivery companies
These scams arrive as emails or texts that look like official notices from USPS, UPS, FedEx, or other delivery services. They often contain a “tracking link” or claim that the carrier is having difficulty delivering your package. Clicking the link takes you to a fake site that asks for personal information or downloads malware onto your device.
One person shared on BBB Scam Tracker, "i received text message, stating FedEx Ground has a pkg for me waiting for signature: 797309 +51-974358250 FedEx® Ground Reschedule Your Shipment Delivery We attempted to deliver your FedEx package on September 6, but we were unable to reach you. A personal signature is necessary for the delivery to be completed. Please follow the instructions to schedule a suitable delivery time. Reschedule Now: https://www.fedex.com@vipiv.click/us Options Include: ·Selecting a new delivery date/time Just reply with 'Y', then close and reopen the message to make the link work. If that doesn’t do it, copy the link and paste it straight into browser. Important Notice: ·Your package is secured at our local facility and will be held until September 9 ·If not rescheduled by this date, your shipment will be returned to the sender. ·Ensure your contact information is current for delivery updates via FedEx My Choice®. Thank you for trusting FedEx® Ground. We’re committed to delivering your shipment on time and in good condition."
2. Fake missed delivery notices
Scammers place a note on your door that claims they are having challenges delivering a package to you. They ask you to call a phone number to reschedule your delivery, but it's a ruse to get your personal information.
In a recent BBB Scam Tracker report, one message stated,left a notice on my door saying i had a check that needed to be delivered that i needed to call them so o could pay for the delivery charges and the check would be hand delivered"
3. False "package on hold" claims
Some victims report being told their package is being held at an airport, warehouse, or distribution center until they pay a fee.
A scam report submitted to BBB Scam Tracker outlines how the person lost $180: "They are a supposed shipping company. They stated that my package was on hold at the airport and asked me to zelle money then again something happened and I had to zelle money again."
4. Fake "incomplete address" messages
These messages typically claim your package can’t be delivered due to an incomplete address. They urge you to click a link to “confirm” your information.
One consumer shared to BBB Scam Tracker, "eceived a fake text claiming it was UPS about a package delivery. The text said: [UPS] Tracking Number... Our driver can't find your address, and your package is still pending. And our driver will redeliver tomorrow. Please provide your complete address at [URL} to schedule redelivery."
A different delivery scam includes a text stating, "The USPS package has arrived at the warehouse and cannot be delivered due to incomplete address information. Please confirm your address in the link: [url] (Please reply to 1, then exit the SMS, open the SMS activation link again, or copy the link to a Safari browser and open it). The US Postal team wishes you a wonderful day."
5. Package theft
Not all delivery scams happen online. Other delivery-related issues shoppers face involve package theft. Many consumers have had their packages stolen before they arrive home from work. Thieves snatch packages from doorsteps or lobbies of apartment or condo complexes. Criminals even follow delivery and postal trucks. When the truck leaves, the crooks move in and grab the parcels.
It's important to note that consumers will never receive unsolicited messages from USPS or other delivery services unless you have provided your contact information.
You have access to free tools that provide shipping and delivery notifications, but you have to opt in to receive them. Information contained in these scam messages would never be provided without the consumer first registering online and initiating a request.
How to avoid delivery scams
1. Take precautions to ensure a safe delivery: If you have a valuable or fragile item delivered to your home, purchase shipping insurance. In addition, always get tracking numbers for your purchases and check the shipping progress periodically.
2. Watch out for texts, calls, or emails about a missed delivery. Legitimate delivery services usually leave a "missed delivery" notice on your door. If you receive a missed delivery notice, examine the form carefully to make sure it is authentic, and only then follow their instructions. Keep track of what you've ordered to better understand what is coming and when. Don't click on links; go to the delivery carrier's website directly or log in and use the retailer's tracking tools.
3. Request a signature when ordering: Chances are this feature may come with a price tag, but it may be worth the extra fee, depending on the level of package theft in your area. Requesting a signature means that a delivery service won't be able to drop a package on your doorstep unless someone is around to sign for it.
4. Don't leave packages sitting on your doorstep. Packages left sitting outside are particularly vulnerable to theft. To ensure safe delivery, have your package delivered to your workplace or a trusted friend or neighbor who will be home to accept delivery. Some delivery companies now have lockers where your packages can securely wait for you to pick them up using a one-time code to open the locker.
5. Open your delivery upon receipt to check for damage or signs of tampering. Contact the seller immediately if you believe something is wrong with the shipment or it's not what you ordered. Also, review the seller's return policy for damaged or unwanted items.
