The Fake Delivery Text
How a simple message about a missed package can lead to stolen information and empty bank accounts.
It usually starts with a text message that looks routine.
“Your package couldn’t be delivered. Please update your shipping information.”
If you’re expecting a package, it feels legitimate.
And that’s exactly what scammers are counting on.
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How the Scam Starts
The message often appears to come from a familiar name:
• USPS
• FedEx
• UPS
• Amazon
It may include a link and a sense of urgency.
Something like:
“Your package is being held. Update your details now to avoid return to sender.”
For many people, especially those who regularly order online, this doesn’t raise immediate concern.
So they click the link.
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What the Scammer Is Actually Doing
The link doesn’t take you to a real shipping company website.
Instead, it leads to a fake website designed to look legitimate.
The site may ask for:
• your name
• address
• phone number
• credit card information
Sometimes it asks for a small “redelivery fee” — often just a few dollars.
But once that information is entered, the scammer now has what they need.
In some cases, clicking the link can also expose your device to malicious software.
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Why This Scam Works
This scam is effective because it blends into everyday life.
People are constantly receiving packages.
The message doesn’t create panic — it creates just enough urgency to act quickly.
And when something feels routine, people are less likely to question it.
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🚩 The Red Flag
Unexpected delivery texts asking you to click a link and enter information are a major warning sign.
Shipping companies do not typically ask for sensitive information through random text messages.
And they do not require you to pay small fees through unfamiliar links to release a package.
If you weren’t expecting a delivery issue, that’s another sign something isn’t right.
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How To Protect Yourself
If you receive a message about a delivery problem:
• Do not click the link
• Go directly to the shipping company’s official website
• Track your package using your known tracking number
• Delete the message and block the sender
When in doubt, verify the information independently.
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What To Do If You Clicked the Link
If you think you may have interacted with a fake delivery message:
• Do not enter any additional information
• Monitor your bank and credit card activity
• Contact your bank if financial information was entered
• Run a security scan on your device if anything was downloaded
Acting quickly can help limit potential damage.
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Final Thought
Scammers are getting better at blending into everyday situations.
They don’t always rely on fear or threats.
Sometimes, it’s just a simple message about a package.
And one quick click can be all it takes.
— R.C., Red Flag Report
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Share This With Someone Who Should See It
If you found this helpful, consider forwarding it to a friend, neighbor, or family member who should know about these scams.
Many victims are parents or grandparents who may not realize how these schemes work.
They can subscribe to future alerts here:
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