How to Spot and Avoid the USPS Package Delivery Scam

If you’ve ever gotten an unexpected text or email saying your USPS package delivery is on hold until you click a link or pay a fee, you’re not alone—and you’re likely looking at a scam. These messages often mimic official USPS notices but lead to fake websites or phishing pages designed to steal your personal or financial information. Recognizing the red flags early can save you from lost money, identity theft, or delayed packages.

Why Scammers Target Package Deliveries

Package delivery scams surge during busy shopping seasons, but they happen year-round. Scammers exploit the anxiety of a delayed delivery by sending urgent messages that appear to come from USPS, FedEx, or UPS. Their goal isn’t just to steal your package—it’s to trick you into revealing login credentials, credit card numbers, or even installing malware on your device. The rise of online shopping has made these scams more effective, as people are conditioned to expect multiple delivery notifications.

What the USPS Scam for Package Delivery Looks Like

Most scams start with a text, email, or even a phone call claiming your package is “held at the post office” or “requires a small fee to reschedule delivery.” The message often includes a link to a fake USPS website that looks legitimate but is actually a phishing site. Some versions ask you to reply with personal details to “verify your identity.” Others instruct you to download an app or software update that’s actually malware. Real USPS notices never ask for sensitive information via text or email.

How to Check If a Delivery Notice Is Real

Before clicking any link or sharing details, verify the source. USPS tracking updates are only available on the official USPS website or through the USPS Mobile app. If you receive a message from an unknown number or email address, ignore it. You can also call your local post office directly using the number listed on the USPS site—never use a phone number provided in the suspicious message. Another red flag: messages with poor grammar, urgent threats like “failure to act will result in cancellation,” or requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfers.

What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted

If you clicked a link or entered information, act quickly. Change your USPS, email, and banking passwords immediately. Scan your devices for malware using trusted antivirus software. If you paid a fee, contact your bank to dispute the charge. Report the scam to the FTC and the USPS Inspector General. You can also forward suspicious emails to spam@uspis.gov and texts to 7726 (SPAM). Keep your tracking number handy—it helps authorities track scam operations.

Protect Yourself Before the Next Scam Arrives

Set up delivery alerts only through official USPS channels. Use a unique password for your USPS account and enable two-factor authentication. Never share tracking numbers publicly on social media, where scammers can harvest them. If you’re expecting a package and get a suspicious message, log in to your USPS account directly instead of using the link in the message. When in doubt, assume it’s a scam—real delivery issues are rare, and scammers rely on urgency to override your skepticism.

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