Every December, package carriers report a surge in scam attempts — and many of them start with a single text message. One study found that delivery-related scams jump by more than 70% during the holidays, making them one of the most common ways shoppers lose money this time of year. If you’ve ever gotten a random “package pending” text that felt a little off, you’re not imagining it. Scammers know we’re all ordering more online, tracking more shipments, and moving quickly through busy days.
Related Page: The Top Scams and Fraud Threats to Watch for in 2026 (and How to Protect Yourself)
And that’s exactly the moment they strike.
As a community bank, we see how these scams affect people in real life — the missed warning signs, the financial stress, and the frustration when someone realizes their trust was taken advantage of. That’s why this guide is here. We want to help you (and your family) move through the holiday season with confidence, clarity, and a better sense of what these fake carrier texts actually look like.
Let’s walk through what’s happening, how scammers trick smart shoppers, and the steps you can take to stay safe.
Why Holiday Delivery Scams Surge Every Year
Holiday delivery scams thrive on one thing: timing.
Online Shopping Volume Peaks — and Scammers Know It
From November through December, the average household receives more packages than at any other point in the year. That makes it easier for scammers to guess that you’re expecting something. They don't need to know what you ordered — they just need you to believe the message might be legitimate.
The “Urgency Factor” Works in Their Favor
Fake messages often sound urgent:
- “Your package is delayed — confirm address.”
- “Final attempt for delivery.”
- “Package held — pay $1.25 fee.”
Scammers rely on the fact that you may be in the middle of work, running errands, or distracted by holiday plans. When you’re pressed for time, you're more likely to click first and think later.
Real Delivery Alerts Look Similar
Delivery companies frequently send out tracking updates, which means scam texts blend right in. The mix of legitimate and fraudulent notifications makes it harder for people to separate what’s real from what’s fake at a glance.
The Most Common Fake Carrier Texts (UPS, FedEx, USPS)
These scams may take different forms, but they share a similar structure: a short text plus a link designed to steal information or money.
Here’s what you’ll likely see.
1. “Address Issue” Scams
These claim there’s a problem with your delivery:
- “UPS: We couldn’t deliver your package. Confirm your address.”
- “FedEx: Delivery suspended — inaccurate street number.”
The link leads to a fake website that collects personal information and payment details.
2. “Small Fee Required” Scams
You may see:
- “USPS: Your package requires a $1.10 redelivery fee.”
- "FedEx: Pay $2.00 service fee to release your package.”
Real carriers never request small payments through text message links.
3. “Schedule Your Delivery” Scams
These texts pretend to offer a delivery window:
- “Schedule your UPS delivery by clicking here.”
- “Your package is waiting — choose delivery time.”
The link usually directs you to a well-designed fake site.
4. “Your Package Is Stopped” Fake Alerts
These notifications use fear and urgency:
- “Attention: Your shipment is on hold due to unpaid customs fees.”
Scammers hope panic pushes you to click quickly.
5. Fake Tracking Numbers
The message includes a tracking number — often one that looks real at a glance but doesn’t match carrier formats.
How Scammers Make Fake Carrier Texts Look Real
Scammers are getting more sophisticated every year. Here’s how they imitate official delivery services convincingly.
They Spoof Sender IDs
Instead of coming from a random number, messages may show:
- “UPS”
- “FedEx”
- “USPS”
This is called SMS spoofing, and it makes the text look like it came from a legitimate source.
They Copy Official Branding
Fake pages often include:
- Company logos
- Carrier colors
- Real service terminology
- Font styles that match official websites
These details make the scam feel believable.
They Use “HTTPS” to Look Secure
Scammers know people look for the padlock icon. They buy SSL certificates to make their fake sites appear secure.
They Use Personalized Language
Some fake messages now include:
- Your name
- Your city
- The name of a real retailer
This information is often scraped from past data breaches — not from any real package order.
What Happens If You Click the Link?
This is where the real damage starts.
Phishing for Personal Information
Fake sites collect:
- Full name
- Address
- Phone number
- Date of birth
Scammers then use that data for identity theft or to orchestrate more targeted scams.
Stealing Debit Card or Credit Card Details
Many scam pages ask you to pay a small “delivery fee.” Once you enter your card number, they immediately begin making unauthorized purchases.
Installing Malware
Some links lead to malware downloads on mobile devices. This can give scammers access to:
- Stored passwords
- Banking apps
- Email accounts
- Two-factor authentication codes
Stealing Login Credentials
Some fake sites mimic carrier login pages and attempt to collect usernames and passwords — giving scammers access to your real accounts.
How to Identify Fake Delivery Texts Instantly
Here’s a short checklist you can rely on. If a text checks even one of these boxes, delete it.
Red Flags to Watch For
- The message comes from an unfamiliar number
- The link looks unusual or contains random strings of letters
- The grammar or capitalization looks off
- The message requests payment through a link
- You weren’t expecting a package
- The text claims “customs” or “shipment fees” for a domestic delivery
- The text pressures you with phrases like “final notice” or “immediate action required”
Don’t Trust the Link (Even If It Looks Legit)
Never click the link. Instead, go directly to:
- The retailer’s website
- UPS.com
- FedEx.com
- USPS.com
Use your own tracking number — not the one in the text.
Use Official Carrier Apps
Legitimate apps will show all package details. If an alert doesn’t appear in the app, it’s fake.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Targeted
Even if you didn’t click anything, you can take a few quick steps to protect your information.
If You Received a Suspicious Text
- Do not click the link
- Do not reply
- Take a screenshot
- Block the number
- Report the scam to your carrier:
If You Clicked the Link
Immediately:
- Close the browser
- Do not enter any information
- Update your phone’s security settings
- Run a malware scan (iPhone/Android)
If You Entered Personal or Financial Information
Time matters. Do the following right away:
1. Contact Your Bank
We can help you identify unauthorized activity and secure your account.
2. Freeze Your Debit or Credit Card
This prevents additional charges.
3. Update Account Passwords
Prioritize email, banking, and shopping accounts.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
This adds an extra layer of security.
How Your Bank Protects You From These Scams
As a community bank, we take fraud protection seriously — especially during the holiday shopping season.
Zero-Liability Protections
Most debit and credit cards offer protection against unauthorized purchases when reported quickly.
Real-Time Fraud Monitoring
We actively monitor unusual activity and can alert you if something looks off.
Secure Online Banking Tools
From account alerts to card controls, you can stay on top of your finances with built-in safety features designed to catch irregular transactions.
Local Support When You Need It
You’re not calling a distant call center. You’re reaching out to people who live and work right here — and who genuinely care about helping you protect your money.
Safe Ways to Track Packages During the Holidays
Avoid clicking on anything that comes through text or email. Use these safer methods instead:
Track Through the Retailer
Every legitimate retailer provides:
- Order history
- Carrier details
- Tracking numbers
Use Carrier Websites and Apps
Direct tracking is always safest.
Sign Up for Official Delivery Management Tools
- UPS My Choice
- FedEx Delivery Manager
- USPS Informed Delivery
These services give you verified updates — not scams.
Keep a List of Your Orders
When holiday shopping ramps up, it helps to keep a small list or digital note:
- What you ordered
- Where it’s coming from
- Expected delivery dates
That way, you’ll know whether a random text makes sense or not.
Teaching Family Members to Spot Delivery Scams
The truth is, scammers target everyone — especially older adults, college students, and busy parents juggling multiple deliveries.
Start With One Simple Rule
“If you didn’t expect a package or you didn’t order anything, the text is fake.”
Share a Few Examples
Show them:
- What a scam text looks like
- What a legitimate carrier text looks like
Real-world examples help build quick recognition.
Encourage Them to Call You or Check Directly
If someone in your family isn’t sure, tell them to reach out before clicking anything. A 10-second phone call can prevent a major headache.
When to Report a Scam — And Who to Contact
Reporting scams helps prevent future fraud.
Report to the Carrier
- UPS
- FedEx
- USPS
Each has dedicated fraud-reporting tools.
Report to the FTC
The Federal Trade Commission collects scam data:
https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
Report to Your Bank
If financial information may be compromised, contact us immediately.
Report to Local Law Enforcement
For large losses or identity theft, filing a police report can help document the case.
How to Stay Ahead of Scammers All Year Long
Scams change constantly, but a few timeless habits make a big difference.
Be Skeptical of Unexpected Messages
Even if they look official.
Don’t Click Links
Go straight to the source — whether it’s a carrier, retailer, or bank.
Enable Transaction Alerts
Real-time alerts help you catch fraud early.
Update Your Phone and Apps
Security updates fix vulnerabilities scammers try to exploit.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Especially for email and financial accounts.
Staying Safe Together This Holiday Season
The holidays should be a time of joy, connection, and community — not stress over scams. At our bank, we believe that financial peace of mind is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. That’s why we’re committed to helping our neighbors stay informed, stay protected, and stay confident when it comes to their money.
If you ever receive a suspicious text or think your information may have been compromised, we’re here to help. Give us a call, stop by a financial center, or connect with us online. Together, we can make sure your holiday season stays merry, bright, and scam-free.
