Holiday scams
'Your Package Can't Be Delivered': Why That USPS Text Is Almost Certainly Fake
As holiday shipping ramps up, so do fake delivery texts. The Postal Service says it doesn't text customers about package problems out of the blue.
"Your package is held at our warehouse due to an incomplete address. Confirm your details within 24 hours." It's short, plausible and perfectly timed — especially in a season when nearly everyone is waiting for something in the mail.
The U.S. Postal Service warns that these messages are a common form of "smishing," phishing carried out by text message.
As a policy, USPS does not text customers directly about problems with packages.
USPS says it won't send texts or emails unless you signed up for them on its website, and those messages won't ask for personal information.
The Better Business Bureau sees this scam rise around the holidays, and it imitates every major carrier, not just USPS.
What the link does
The link leads to a convincing copy of a carrier's website. Some ask for a tiny fee — sometimes just a dollar — to "redeliver" the package. The point isn't the dollar. It's your card number, address and personal details, which can be used for identity theft. Some links can also install malware.
How to check a real delivery
Go directly to the carrier's official website or app and enter your tracking number. Real USPS web addresses end in usps.com. If you want legitimate alerts, sign up for USPS text tracking or Informed Delivery on the official site.
What to do
- Don't click. Track packages only through the official site or app.
- Delete the text and report it as junk in your messaging app.
- If you entered card details, call your bank right away.
- Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.