Pretends to be a delivery company
Fake package delivery text
Is a text saying my package needs action and has a link a scam?
Yes, most likely. USPS only sends tracking texts you asked for, and they have no link. Do not click; check tracking on the official site.
Almost always fake. Stop, then check by calling a number you already have.
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Draft: we're still checking this page. The quotes below are word for word from their sources.
What to do
On the phone right now?
- Stop. Hang up or close the message. Don't tap anything.
- Check. Call a number you already have, like the one on your card or bill.
- Talk to someone you trust before you pay anyone.
If anyone is in danger right now, call 911.
If you already paid
- Call the company you paid through right away: your bank, card company, gift card company, or the wire or Zelle service. Ask them to stop or reverse the payment.
- Call the Justice Department's National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311, Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern.
- Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If it happened online, report it at IC3.gov too.
General information, not legal or financial advice. If you've lost money, contact your bank and report it.
How it works
1 They reach you by
- Text message
- Website
2 They pretend to be
- Delivery company
- Police or government
3 They ask for
- Tap a link
- Personal details
What it can look like
Example pattern, not a real message
Pretends to be a delivery company. What gives it away:
- Give your ID numbers
- Use their link
What they may say
“both of these issues can easily be fixed: just click on a link”
“your package can’t be delivered, please call us”
Warning signs
- They contacted you, then ask for your Social Security, Medicare or bank numbers.
- They want you to use their link or their phone number. Look up the real website or number yourself.
Why we say this
Smishing: Package Tracking Text Scams
Scammers send texts that look like they come from USPS. The text says a package needs your action and has a link. The link is meant to steal your passwords, bank details or Social Security number. USPS only sends tracking texts if you asked for them, and those texts have no link.
Have you received unsolicited mobile text messages with an unfamiliar or strange web link that indicates a USPS delivery requires a response from you?
5 more quotes from this source
This type of text message is a scam called smishing.
These scammers often attempt to disguise themselves as a government agency, bank, or other company to lend legitimacy to their claims.
The criminals want to receive personally identifiable information (PII) about the victim such as: account usernames and passwords, Social Security number, date of birth, credit and debit card numbers, personal identification numbers (PINs), or other sensitive information.
If you suspect the text message you have received is suspicious but are expecting a parcel, please do not click on any links. Rather, report it and visit USPS.com from your mobile device or computer for tracking and additional resources.
Legitimate companies will not ask you to confirm or provide personal information.
Scammers are delivering phishing messages this holiday season
Local police in Plymouth warn that holiday shopping brings more scams, including fake delivery notices, fake shopping websites, fake charities, and too-good-to-be-true deals on hard-to-find items. This article is a general roundup, and its main scam for this guide is the fake package delivery notice.
Scammers are counting on that when they send fake delivery notifications to you by email and text, hoping you'll click.
2 more quotes from this source
You get an email or text and it says you missed the delivery.
The scammers say both of these issues can easily be fixed: just click on a link.
Plymouth Police Warn of Rise in Holiday-Themed Scams
Local police in Plymouth warn that holiday shopping brings more scams, including fake delivery notices, fake shopping websites, fake charities, and too-good-to-be-true deals on hard-to-find items. This article is a general roundup, and its main scam for this guide is the fake package delivery notice.
This includes fake delivery notices or package alerts.
2 more quotes from this source
If you receive a notice stating, *“your package can’t be delivered, please call us,”* when you are not expecting a delivery, simply do not reply.
If you are expecting a package, verify with the shipper or seller before responding.