Scam texts
Fake USPS texts: how to spot a package delivery scam
The short answer
USPS doesn’t text or email you unless you signed up for tracking with a tracking number, and even then its texts don’t contain a link, according to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).
So a surprise text about a missed delivery, a bad address, or a redelivery fee is a scam. Don’t tap the link. Forward it to 7726 and to spam@uspis.gov, then delete it (USPIS).
What the text looks like
These messages say a package couldn’t be delivered, that your address is incomplete, or that you owe a small fee, and they include a link to ‘fix’ it. The FTC lists fake delivery texts among the most common unexpected text scams (FTC).
How real USPS texts work
- You only get USPS text updates if you asked for them, using a tracking number (USPIS).
- You can request tracking updates by texting your tracking number to 28777 (USPS).
- The Postal Inspection Service says USPS texts will not contain a link (USPIS).
How to check a delivery safely
- Don’t tap the link.
- Track it yourself by typing usps.com into your browser or using the official USPS app.
- If you’re waiting on an online order, check it in the store’s own app or website.
Report it
- Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) (USPIS).
- Email the details to spam@uspis.gov (USPIS).
- Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
If you clicked the link
If you entered card or bank details, the Postal Inspection Service says to contact your bank right away (USPIS). If you entered your Social Security number or date of birth, see what to do after a data breach and consider a credit freeze.
The same playbook shows up in unpaid toll texts. For anything else, start with is this a scam?
Common questions
Does USPS send texts about missed deliveries?
Only if you signed up for text tracking with a tracking number, and those texts don’t include a link (USPIS).
What is 28777?
It’s the USPS short code for text tracking. You text your tracking number to 28777 to get updates (USPS).
I didn’t order anything. Why did I get this?
Not expecting a package is a strong sign it’s fake. Either way, don’t tap the link. Track any real package yourself at usps.com (USPIS).
Where do I report a fake USPS text?
Forward it to 7726 and email spam@uspis.gov (USPIS). You can also report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
This page is general information, not legal or financial advice. If money already left your account, call your bank or card company first.