Charlotte, NC – For years now, some consumers have been getting text messages stating that a major delivery carrier needs them to “update delivery preferences” on a package by clicking a link. The problem? The texts are scams, and the links result in the theft of personal information, money, or both.

Delivery scams and theft are particularly prevalent during the holidays when more packages are shipped, but they can happen year-round. Scammers are hoping shoppers are busy or distracted and will act without thinking.

Popular delivery scams

  1. Phishing messages posing as delivery companies – These scams arrive as emails or texts that look like official notices from USPS, UPS, FedEx, or other delivery services. They often contain a “tracking link” or claim that the carrier is having difficulty delivering your package. Clicking the link takes you to a fake site that asks for personal information or downloads malware onto your device.
  2. Fake missed delivery notices – Scammers place a note on your door that claims they are having challenges delivering a package to you. They ask you to call a phone number to reschedule your delivery, but it’s a ruse to get your personal information.
  3. False “package on hold” claims – Some victims report being told their package is being held at an airport, warehouse, or distribution center until they pay a fee.
  4. Fake “incomplete address” messages – These messages typically claim your package can’t be delivered due to an incomplete address. They urge you to click a link to “confirm” your information.
  5. Package theft – Not all delivery scams happen online. Other delivery-related issues shoppers face involve package theft. Many consumers have had their packages stolen before they arrive home from work. Thieves snatch packages from doorsteps or lobbies of apartment or condo complexes. Criminals even follow delivery and postal trucks. When the truck leaves, the crooks move in and grab the parcels.

It’s important to note that consumers will never receive unsolicited messages from USPS or other delivery services unless you have provided your contact information.

You have access to free tools that provide shipping and delivery notifications, but you have to opt in to receive them. Information contained in these scam messages would never be provided without the consumer first registering online and initiating a request.

How to avoid delivery scams

  1. Take precautions to ensure a safe delivery: If you have a valuable or fragile item delivered to your home, purchase shipping insurance. In addition, always get tracking numbers for your purchases and check the shipping progress periodically.
  2. Watch out for texts, calls, or emails about a missed delivery. Legitimate delivery services usually leave a “missed delivery” notice on your door. If you receive a missed delivery notice, examine the form carefully to make sure it is authentic, and only then follow their instructions. Keep track of what you’ve ordered to better understand what is coming and when. Don’t click on links; go to the delivery carrier’s website directly or log in and use the retailer’s tracking tools.
  3. Request a signature when ordering: Chances are this feature may come with a price tag, but it may be worth the extra fee, depending on the level of package theft in your area. Requesting a signature means that a delivery service won’t be able to drop a package on your doorstep unless someone is around to sign for it.
  4. Don’t leave packages sitting on your doorstep. Packages left sitting outside are particularly vulnerable to theft. To ensure safe delivery, have your package delivered to your workplace or a trusted friend or neighbor who will be home to accept delivery. Some delivery companies now have lockers where your packages can securely wait for you to pick them up using a one-time code to open the locker.
  5. Open your delivery upon receipt to check for damage or signs of tampering. Contact the seller immediately if you believe something is wrong with the shipment or it’s not what you ordered. Also, review the seller’s return policy for damaged or unwanted items.