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Got a text about an order? Be cautious
Many people have received texts claiming a major carrier needs them to update their delivery preferences by clicking a link. These texts are scams. The links lead to fake sites that steal personal information, money, or both.
Delivery scams and package theft spike during the holidays, when more packages ship, but they happen all year. Scammers count on busy shoppers acting before they think.
know the signs
Five common delivery scams
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.
Reported to BBB Scam Tracker
"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... Reschedule Now: [link removed] ... Just reply with 'Y', then close and reopen the message to make the link work."
Scammers leave a note on your door claiming they couldn't deliver a package. The note asks you to call a phone number to reschedule, but the call is a ruse to collect your personal information or a fee.
Reported to BBB Scam Tracker
"[They] left a notice on my door saying i had a check that needed to be delivered that i needed to call them so [I] could pay for the delivery charges and the check would be hand delivered."
Scammers leave a note on your door claiming they couldn't deliver a package. The note asks you to call a phone number to reschedule, but the call is a ruse to collect your personal information or a fee.
Reported to BBB Scam Tracker
"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."
These messages claim your package can't be delivered because your address is incomplete. They urge you to click a link to confirm your information.
Reported to BBB Scam Tracker
"[R]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... Please provide your complete address at [URL] to schedule redelivery."
Not every delivery scam happens online. Thieves take packages from doorsteps and apartment lobbies, and some follow delivery trucks to grab parcels right after they're dropped off.
red flags
Signs a delivery message is a scam
The scam reports above share the same tricks. If a message has any of these, don't click, reply, or call.
It asks you to reply before the link will work. Replying tells scammers your number is active.
The link doesn't match the carrier's real website. Extra words or symbols around a brand name, such as an @ sign, can send you to a different site.
It sets a a deadline. Scammers warn that your package will be returned unless you act now.
It asks you for a fee to release or redeliver a package. Requests to pay by Zelle, gift card, or wire transfer are a strong sign of fraud.
You don't remember ordering anything. Keep a list of what you've ordered so surprise notices stand out.
Carriers don't text you out of the blue
USPS won't text or email you about a delivery unless you signed up for alerts and requested updates for that package. Other carriers' tracking alerts also require you to opt in first. If you didn't sign up, treat the message as a scam.
How to avoid delivery scams
Protect valuable shipments. Buy shipping insurance for valuable or fragile items. Always get a tracking number and check on your package's progress.
Verify delivery messages before you act. Don't click links in texts or emails about a delivery. Go to the carrier's website yourself, or use the retailer's order tracking. If you find a missed delivery note on your door, look up the carrier's phone number on its official website instead of calling the number on the note.
Request a signature. A signature requirement may cost extra, but it means a carrier can't leave your package on the doorstep unless someone is there to accept it. It can be worth the fee if package theft is common where you live.
Don't let packages sit outside. Packages left on a doorstep are easy targets. Have them delivered to your workplace or a trusted neighbor, or use a carrier locker where you pick up your package with a one-time code.
Inspect deliveries right away. Open packages as soon as they arrive and check for damage or signs of tampering. If something is wrong or it isn't what you ordered, contact the seller right away and review its return policy.
If it already happened
Already clicked a link or paid a fee?
Act quickly. These steps can limit the damage.
Call your bank
If you paid or shared card details, contact your bank or card issuer right away.
Change passwords
If you entered a password, change it on every account where you use it.
Report it
Tell BBB Scam Tracker what happened so other shoppers can spot the same scam.
Spotted a delivery scam? Report it.
Your report to BBB Scam Tracker helps warn other shoppers before they lose money.
keep learning
More ways to shop and ship safely
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Protect your personal information, spot red flags, and shop safely during the busiest time of year.
How fake package delivery scams work
See real examples of fake delivery notices and what to do if one lands in your inbox.
Learn how to avoid scams
Learn the warning signs that show up in nearly every scam and the steps that protect you.