Most of us have become accustomed to receiving a text or email letting us know when a package is on the way. Whether you’re ordering groceries, school supplies, birthday gifts, or household items, delivery notifications have become part of everyday life.
Unfortunately, scammers have noticed that, too.
Package delivery scams have become one of the most common forms of phishing because they take advantage of a simple fact: many people are expecting a delivery. A message that might have seemed suspicious a few years ago can feel completely believable today.
Understanding how these scams work is one of the best ways to avoid becoming a victim. Staying informed is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself, which is why we regularly share practical tips through our Community Safety Minute series and other educational resources on our blog.
What Is a Package Delivery Scam?
A package delivery scam is a type of phishing attempt designed to convince you that there is a problem with a shipment.
The message may claim that:
- Your package couldn’t be delivered.
- Your address needs to be confirmed.
- A delivery fee is required.
- You must act immediately to avoid your package being returned.
These messages often appear to come from familiar companies such as USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, or Amazon. They may include company logos, tracking numbers, or links that look legitimate at first glance.
The goal isn’t to help you track a package—it’s to persuade you to click a fraudulent link or share personal information.
Why Package Delivery Scam Messages Can Be So Convincing
Unlike many older scams, today’s phishing messages are often professionally designed.
Scammers know that people are busy. If you’re expecting a package, you may not stop to question a notification that appears routine.
Many scam messages also create a sense of urgency by suggesting there is only a short amount of time to resolve the issue before your package is delayed or returned.
That feeling of urgency is intentional. The less time you spend thinking, the more likely you are to react.
What Happens If You Click the Link?
Not every fraudulent link does the same thing.
Some direct you to fake websites designed to collect usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or banking information.
Others may ask you to pay a small “delivery fee.” While the amount may seem insignificant, the real objective is often to obtain your payment information.
In some cases, clicking a malicious link can also expose your device to harmful software designed to steal information stored on your phone or computer.
If your personal or financial information has been compromised, acting quickly can help reduce further damage. While every situation is different, understanding your options early is important.
How to Tell the Difference: Legitimate Message or Package Delivery Scam?
Although scam messages continue to improve, there are still warning signs you can identify.
Ask yourself:
- Am I actually expecting a package?
- Does the sender’s email address or phone number look legitimate?
- Is the message creating unnecessary urgency?
- Am I being asked to provide payment or personal information?
- Does the web address match the company’s official website?
If something doesn’t seem quite right, don’t rely on the message itself.
Instead, visit the retailer’s website or the shipping company’s official tracking page by typing the address directly into your browser or opening the company’s app.
What Should You Do If You Suspect a Package Delivery Scam?
Receiving a suspicious message doesn’t necessarily mean your information has been compromised.
The safest response is usually the simplest:
- Don’t click any links.
- Don’t reply to the message.
- Delete it after reporting it as spam.
- If you believe the message impersonates a legitimate company, report it through that company’s official website.
If you already clicked the link or shared sensitive information, consider changing affected passwords immediately and monitoring your financial accounts for unusual activity.
Awareness Is Your Best Defense Against Scammers
Technology continues to evolve, and so do scams. While it’s impossible to recognize every fraudulent message, understanding the tactics scammers use can make it much easier to pause, verify, and respond appropriately.
At Cusimano, Roberts, Mills & Knowlton, we believe protecting yourself starts with good information. Our Community Safety Minute series is designed to share practical, everyday knowledge that helps individuals and families make informed decisions and avoid common risks.
Explore more articles in our Resource Center covering news about our firm and topics that affect Alabama families every day.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
