The delivery-fee text
A text says your package is held and needs a small fee or address confirmation via a link.
Hand-authored (ScamVet), reviewed · reviewed 2026-07-06
How it works
You get a text from 'the post office' or a courier saying a parcel is stuck and needs a tiny fee, or that you must confirm details. The link leads to a fake page that captures your card and personal information.
How it unfolds
Scams like this follow a pattern. Knowing the arc helps you notice where you are — and step away before the ask.
You receive a text message claiming a delivery couldn't be completed and asking you to click a link or pay a small fee to reschedule or release your package.
The message looks official—it may mention a familiar carrier name or include tracking details that seem real. The urgency feels genuine because you're expecting something.
You're asked to click a link, provide payment, or confirm personal details to 'unlock' the delivery. The fee seems small and reasonable compared to the package value.
STOP HERE: If you've clicked the link, given payment details, or shared information, do not proceed further. Legitimate carriers never ask for payment via text or unsecured links. Close the message, do not click any links, and do not reply.
Red flags
- An unexpected 'held package' needing a fee to release.
- A link to a look-alike or shortened URL.
- Requests for card details to pay a small amount.
What to do
- Don't tap the link. Track any real package on the carrier's official app or site.
- Delete the text. Carriers don't collect fees this way.
- If you tapped, watch your card statement and report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
If it already happened
Acting quickly can limit the damage. You are not alone, and it is not your fault.
- Stop all contact immediately. Do not click any links in follow-up messages or reply to the text.
- Contact your bank or credit card issuer right away if you provided card details or made a payment. Ask them to flag the transaction and watch your account for unauthorized charges.
- Change passwords for any online accounts (especially email, banking, and shopping apps) if you entered login credentials, and enable two-factor authentication where available. Keep records of the text message and any screenshots.
- Report the scam at reportfraud.ftc.gov, including the phone number the text came from, the exact message content, and any payment or information you shared.
Sources
Guidance on this page draws on public, authoritative consumer-protection resources (verified live 2026-07-10). Hand-authored (ScamVet), reviewed · reviewed 2026-07-06.
Spotted this or lost money? Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov. This is general educational information, not legal or financial advice — and ScamVet never asks for your identity or account details.
