Scam guides › Package delivery text (USPS, UPS, FedEx)
Is the USPS redelivery text a scam? ("Your package could not be delivered")
Updated . By the AskBeforeYouSend editorial team (how we fact-check). Fact-checked against the official sources listed at the bottom.
What it looks like
A made-up example in the usual style. Notice the fake web address and the deadline.
How the scam works
- A text says a package is "on hold", "undeliverable" or needs an address update.
- The link opens a fake shipping page asking for a small "redelivery fee".
- The real goal is your card number and personal details.
Red flags
- You never asked for text tracking on this package
- A link in the text (USPS says real tracking texts you didn't request won't have one)
- A small fee to "redeliver"
- A deadline measured in hours
What to do now
- Don't tap the link.
- If you're expecting something, type usps.com (or the shipper's site) yourself and enter the tracking number from your order.
- Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) and delete it.
- If you paid, call the number on the back of your card.
Report it
Questions
Does USPS ever charge a redelivery fee by text?
The Postal Inspection Service says USPS doesn't charge for its tracking text service and won't text you a link you didn't request. Check on usps.com yourself.
Sources
- U.S. Postal Inspection Service: Smishing / package tracking text scams
- FTC consumer alert: Is that unexpected text a scam? (Apr 2025)
- FTC: How to recognize and report spam text messages
Example messages are made up to show the pattern unless we say otherwise. Phone numbers in examples use the fictional 555 range.
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