Delivery Scams

blue mail boxes

Delivery scams, often impersonating reputable carriers such as USPS, FedEx, or UPS, involve deceptive phone or email notices claiming a package delivery failure to your address.   Unexpected alerts about your account could be a fraud. 

These scams aim to trick recipients into providing sensitive information, including personal details, financial information, or passwords for mail service websites.

Scammers sometimes attempt to coerce victims into paying upfront fees for a service they will never receive.

  • Urgent Messages: Scammers create a sense of urgency, claiming immediate action is required to avoid consequences.
  • Unsolicited Communications: Be cautious of unexpected emails or messages about failed deliveries, especially if you didn't recently order a package.
  • Request for Personal Information: Legitimate delivery services rarely ask for personal or financial information through unsolicited emails or texts.
  • Verify Directly: Instead of clicking on links in emails or texts, go directly to the official website of the delivery service by typing the URL in your browser.  Confirm there are no suspicious shipping or billing activities by logging into the delivery service using a known reliable website, not one provided by the suspicious notice.
  • Check Tracking Numbers: Legitimate carriers provide tracking numbers. Verify the authenticity of a message by cross-referencing the tracking number on the official website.  Don't use the links that the scammer conveniently gives you. 
  • Contact the Carrier: If in doubt, contact the carrier directly using contact information from their official website. They can confirm whether there are any issues with your delivery.
  • Report the Scam: Inform the carrier about the scam. They may have established channels for reporting fraudulent activities.
  • Change Passwords: If you provided passwords, change them immediately. Use strong, unique passwords for different accounts.
  • Monitor Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank and email accounts for suspicious activities. Report any unauthorized transactions promptly.

References: