Delivery Service Text Alert Scams

You might be familiar with package delivery text messages. When you order items online, you receive text messages updating you as your package moves through the different stages of fulfillment. These notifications give you peace of mind that your order is on the way and inform you when it will arrive.

Due to the importance of package delivery texts, scammers create fake ones to obtain personal information to steal your identity and open bank, social media or email accounts in your name.

What Are Package Delivery Scams?

Package delivery scams are text messages or emails meant to access personal information from the target. They mimic official notifications from legitimate carriers and run look-alike websites.

Delivery scam texts include:

• Failed delivery messages: Delivery notice scams communicate that you missed a delivery attempt. They prompt you to reschedule the delivery via a link.
• Notifications to update shipping preferences: This message will indicate that your order is ready to ship and you need to reenter your shipping preferences.
• Payment notifications: Other scam variations claim you must pay a tax or customs fee to receive your package.
• Action request messages: These scam texts say your delivery is awaiting action to prompt you to click on a link.
• Messages with callback numbers: In this scenario, you'll receive a notice that includes a callback number. If you call this number, the person on the other end will ask you to verify account information or the credit card details you used for the purchase.
• Package tracking notifications: You'll get a tracking order update asking you to track your package by clicking on a link.

How to Recognize Informed Delivery Scams

Since it's difficult to know when scammers might target you, knowing the signs to look for is essential in safeguarding your personal information. These signs include:

• Urgent requests: The message will urge you to act immediately to avoid a certain consequence, such as the “carrier” returning the package to the sender.
• Personal information request: You may be dealing with a package delivery scam when the notice asks for your personal information and financial details.
• You have not ordered items online: If you are not expecting a package, you'll immediately know that you are dealing with a delivery scam text.
• Suspicious links in the message: Scrutinize the links to check for incorrect carrier business names. For instance, the business name will be slightly altered with one capitalized letter or a hyphen.

What Should You Do After Receiving a Delivery Scam Text?

One of the best ways to protect yourself is not to respond. Do not take any action, whether it's calling back or clicking on a link. Scammers can capture any information you enter using the provided link or download malware onto your device to collect financial and personal information.

Below are other actions you can take:

• Rather than clicking the provided link, open the official carrier website on your browser and search for the alleged tracking number.
• Verify on the official website that the named carrier does not ask for financial or personal information. These details might be in one of their policies.
• If you've recently bought an item, confirm your order details on the seller's website and compare them against the text message.
• Report the scam to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Learn More About Scams With Business Consumer Alliance (BCA)

Since scammers are continuously looking for ways to obtain personal and financial details, staying up to date with the latest scams is crucial. At BCA, we educate you about different scams and how you can protect yourself. If you have fallen victim to a package delivery scam, file a complaint with us. We have a dedicated and experienced team ready to help you.