Fake Parcel Delivery Texts? Spot Them
A text says your parcel is held and you must click a link to reschedule delivery. You are not expecting anything — or maybe you are, which is what makes this scam work. This guide shows how to spot the fake and what to do.
TL;DR / Quick Fix
Quick fix: don't tap the link — real carriers never ask you to pay fees or enter details through a random text link. Track your parcel in the carrier's official app or website instead. Delete the text, report it as junk, and block the sender.
Follow these steps
- Pause before tapping. Scam texts create urgency — 'held,' 'last chance,' 'pay now.' Real delivery problems never demand instant action from a text link.
- Read the sender. The message comes from a random mobile number or an odd email address, not the carrier's short code. Carriers text from consistent official numbers.
- Spot the red flags. Unexpected fees, misspellings, strange links, and requests for card details are all classic tells. A real carrier already has your delivery details.
- Check your parcel the safe way. Open the carrier's official app or type their website address yourself. If a parcel truly needs attention, it will show there.
- Report it as junk. Report the message as junk and block the sender so the next wave cannot reach you.
- Warn anyone it could fool. These texts target everyone, including older relatives. A quick heads-up to family stops the scam at the people most likely to tap.
What NOT to do
- Do not tap the link 'just to see.' The page may install malware or harvest your card details the moment you interact.
- Do not reply STOP to a scam text. Any reply confirms your number is active and invites more spam.
- Do not pay a 'redelivery fee' by text link. Carriers do not collect surprise fees through random links.
- Do not trust it because you are expecting a parcel. Scammers blast these texts widely precisely because someone is always waiting for a package.
Frequently asked questions
I clicked the link — what now?
Close the page and do not enter anything. If you typed card details, call your bank immediately — and see what to do after you clicked a phishing link.
How did they get my number?
They did not — these texts go out to millions of random numbers. Yours was simply in the blast.
Will the carrier ever text me a link?
Carriers send tracking updates, but they never ask for payments or personal details through a text link. When in doubt, check the official app.