Security Corner Blog

The holiday season is here, and with it comes an increase in online shopping and package deliveries. Unfortunately, scammers are also getting ready to take advantage of the surge in deliveries. Package delivery scams have become increasingly sophisticated, leaving unsuspecting victims at risk of losing money, sensitive information, or both. Here’s how these scams work, how to spot them, and what to do if you’ve been targeted.

How Package Delivery Scams Work

Scammers use various tactics to trick you into thinking you have a package waiting to be delivered. Some common methods include:

Phishing Emails or Texts: You might receive a message claiming to be from a delivery service like FedEx, UPS, or USPS. These messages often state that there’s an issue with your delivery and include a link to “resolve” the problem.

Fake Delivery Notices: Scammers may leave fake delivery tags on your door, instructing you to call a number or visit a website to schedule redelivery.

Bogus Tracking Numbers: A fake tracking number that appears legitimate but leads to a phishing site designed to steal your personal or financial information is provided.

How to Spot a Package Delivery Scam

1. Check for Poor Grammar and Spelling: Scammers often use poorly written messages that delivery companies wouldn’t send.
2. Look at the Sender’s Email Address: Legitimate delivery services will use official domain names, not random email addresses.
3. Avoid Unsolicited Links: Don’t click on links in messages that you didn’t expect to receive.
4. Verify Directly with the Carrier: Contact the delivery service directly through their official website or customer service number to confirm the status of your package.
5. Unexpected Requests for Payment: Legitimate delivery companies won’t ask for additional payment to release a package unless it’s a customs fee or a pre-arranged charge.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Be Skeptical of Unexpected Messages

• Ignore unsolicited text messages, emails, or phone calls claiming issues with a package delivery.
• Verify the sender’s information directly with the carrier by checking their official website or calling their customer service.

2. Look for Red Flags

• Urgent Language: Scammers often use words like "urgent action required" to pressure you.
• Generic Greetings: Be cautious if the message lacks personalization (e.g., "Dear Customer").
• Poor Grammar: Legitimate companies rarely have spelling or grammar errors in their communications.

3. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links

• Never click on links from unknown senders or emails claiming to be from a delivery company. Instead, go to the official carrier website and enter your tracking number directly.

4. Verify Tracking Numbers

• Scammers may send fake tracking numbers. Confirm the tracking number on the official website of the delivery company.

5. Enable Package Alerts

• Sign up for alerts from trusted carriers like UPS, FedEx, or USPS. These alerts will notify you of package updates directly from the source.

6. Be Cautious of Payment Requests

• Delivery companies do not ask for payment to release a package or correct a delivery error. Any such request is a scam.

7. Install Security Software

• Keep antivirus and anti-phishing software up to date on your devices to block malicious websites and emails.

8. Monitor Your Financial Accounts

• Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions, especially after suspecting a scam.

9. Report Scams

• If you receive a suspicious message, report it to the FTC (www.ftc.gov), your local consumer protection agency, or the delivery company in question.

10. Use Secure Delivery Options

• Opt for secure delivery options such as requiring a signature upon receipt or using a package locker.

By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can help ensure your holiday and year-round package deliveries arrive safely without falling victim to scams.

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