Fake package delivery text scams have become increasingly popular over the past year or so, particularly as more people shop online and expect deliveries from major courier services like UPS, FedEx, Amazon, and USPS. These scams are designed to trick recipients into providing personal information, clicking on malicious links, or even paying fake delivery fees, all under the guise of a missed package or an issue with their delivery. The worst part about these scams is that many seem really credible.
How Fake Package Delivery Notification Text Scams Work
The scam begins with a text message that appears to be from a well-known delivery company or courier service. The message may look very legitimate, using a familiar company name (e.g., UPS, FedEx, DHL) or a variation of it. The text typically claims that a package was either undeliverable or missed and provides a link for the recipient to reschedule delivery, confirm details, or pay a fee. The message might even include a tracking number to make it look more convincing. The text usually contains a link to a fake website or an attachment that, when clicked, directs the recipient to a website that may look like a legitimate courier page. The website could ask the victim to provide sensitive information such as their credit card number, address, or login credentials.
These fraudulent sites are designed to steal personal information. They might request login details for the victim’s online shopping accounts or payment methods, which can then be used for identity theft or unauthorized transactions. Sometimes the link leads to a file download that infects the victim’s phone or computer with malware or viruses. These can steal data or even lock the device until a ransom is paid. In some cases, the scam will ask the victim to pay a fee to have the package “re-delivered,” or to cover customs or shipping charges. These payments are made through unconventional methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
After the victim takes action – either by clicking on the link or paying a fee – they typically never receive the package. The scammer then disappears, often leaving no way for the victim to track or recover their lost money.
Signs of a Fake Package Delivery Scam
- If you weren’t expecting a package or haven’t ordered anything recently, be cautious. Legitimate companies will typically not send unsolicited messages about missed deliveries.
- Scammers often use vague language like “Dear Customer” or “Dear User” instead of addressing you by name. Authentic delivery companies typically use your name in communications.
- Messages that pressure you to act quickly or make threats, like saying your package will be returned if not claimed immediately, are often a scam tactic designed to trigger quick, emotional decisions.
- Be wary of clicking on links in unsolicited texts. Scammers often use URL shorteners or slightly altered versions of real domain names (e.g., “www.feex.com” instead of “www.fedex.com”) to mislead you.
- Many scam messages contain poor grammar, awkward phrasing, or spelling mistakes. Official communications from major courier companies are typically more polished and professional.
- Legitimate couriers never ask for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. If the text asks you for such payments, it’s definitely a scam.
How to Protect Yourself from Fake Package Delivery Scams
- If you receive a message claiming to be from a courier service, do not click on the link. Instead, go directly to the official website of the company (e.g., UPS, FedEx, Amazon) and check your package status by entering your tracking number manually.
- Always double-check the phone number or email address of the sender.
- Contact the Courier Service Directly
- For extra protection on your accounts, enable two-factor authentication where possible. This makes it harder for scammers to access your accounts, even if they manage to steal your login information.
- If you’ve received a fake package delivery text, report it to your carrier, as well as to consumer protection agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local authorities.
