Guide · 5 min read
USPS Text Scam: How to Tell If a Delivery Text Is Fake
Quick answer
A USPS text asking you to pay a small fee or update your address through a link is almost always a scam. USPS does not text links asking for payment. Check tracking only at usps.com or in the official app.
Fake delivery texts are among the most common scams sent by SMS. They claim a parcel is stuck, a small fee is unpaid, or an address needs updating — and they link to a lookalike site built to steal card details.
What the message usually looks like
Most versions say a package couldn't be delivered and ask you to 'confirm your address' or pay a fee of a few dollars within hours. The small amount is deliberate: it feels too minor to question.
Warning signs
Any one of these is a reason to stop and verify:
- A link that isn't usps.com (for example usps-redelivery-secure.com or a shortened link).
- A deadline such as 'within 12 hours or your parcel will be returned'.
- A request for card details to pay a 'redelivery' or 'customs' fee.
- You weren't expecting a package, or you didn't give USPS your phone number.
What to do
Don't tap the link. Open the official carrier app or type the carrier's website yourself and enter the tracking number from your order confirmation. If you already entered card details, call your bank using the number on the back of your card.
You can forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) to report it to your mobile carrier.