Don’t Get Wrapped Up in a Scam: A Guide to Package Delivery Scams
Have you ever gotten a text message or an email about a package delivery you weren’t expecting? While the thought of an unexpected package may feel a bit like a surprise birthday gift, you’ll want to be cautious.
Online shopping experienced a boom during the pandemic, and it hasn’t slowed down since. Scammers know this and have found many ways to trap the unwary consumer. Learn the signs of a package delivery scam so you can keep yourself safe.
Understanding the Different Types of Package Delivery Scams
Delivery scammers have several tactics in their arsenal, and often use a combination to try to steal your personal information, money, or even trick you into receiving unwanted items. Here are some of the most common types:
Phishing Scams
These scams come in the form of emails, texts, and even voicemails that appear to be from legitimate delivery companies like FedEx, UPS, or USPS. They often claim there’s an issue with your delivery, whether it’s an incomplete address, customs problems, or a missed delivery attempt.
The message will then pressure you to click on a link or call a phone number to “resolve” the issue. Don’t fall for it! These fake links can download malware onto your device, and the phone number could connect you to a scammer waiting to trick you out of your personal financial information.
Fake Delivery Notices
These involve leaving fake delivery notices on your door and can look very real. The notice might claim there was an attempted delivery and give you a phone number to call or a QR code to scan to reschedule. Calling the number could connect you to a scammer waiting to steal your information or pressure you into making a payment for “redelivery fees”. A QR code can link you to a malicious site or even download malware directly onto your phone.
Brushing Scams
Have you ever received a package you didn’t order? While honest mistakes can happen, this might be a brushing scam. Scammers send unsolicited, low-value items and then post fake positive reviews in your name. This boosts their online reputation and can potentially trick others into buying the product.
If you receive a package you didn’t order, you’ll want to take action. If there’s a return address, you can simply write “Return to Sender” for regular mail. The USPS will return their packages free of charge. You can also contact the seller directly to inquire about the package. You’ll want to double check your account to make sure the item was not ordered fraudulently, but then consider discarding the unopened package.
You can throw the package away in your regular trash if there is nothing hazardous inside. If you live in the U.S., you also have the option to simply keep the package contents if you wish, though it’s recommended to properly dispose of any consumables, chemicals, or unknown plants or seeds as they can be invasive if non-native to your area.
How to Spot a Package Delivery Scam
As scams become more sophisticated, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between the real and the fake. But there are some red flags to watch out for that can help you tell a genuine delivery notification from a scammer’s attempt.
Message Delivery Method
Shipping companies will not call or text unless you have specifically asked them to. If you have not given permission to a company to contact you, you can assume the call or text is a scam. Hang up the call or delete the text. These companies may leave a door tag or email you, so read on to learn what to watch for in those cases.
A Sense of Urgency
Scammers want you to panic because you’re more likely to make a rash decision. Messages that demand immediate action or threaten you are not legitimate. Delivery companies will give you a reasonable time frame to address any issues.
Unusual Payment Methods
Legitimate delivery companies will never ask for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or other prepaid cards. If a message instructs you to pay for delivery fees or customs charges using these methods, it’s a scam. If you owe money on a delivery (a very rare occurrence), you can find that information by tracking the package through the company’s website.
Grammatical Errors and Typos
Professional companies generally maintain good quality control within their communications. Phishing attempts often have grammatical errors, typos, or strange phrasing. You can also check the sender’s email address, usually by clicking on the “From:” line. A long string of random numbers and letters is a definite red flag for a scam. Delete the email.
Suspicious Links
You should never click on links in unsolicited messages. Be especially cautious of the following:
- Shortened URLs (e.g., bit.ly/12345)
- Strange domain names (e.g., @mazon.com instead of @amazon.com)
- Any links that pressure you to click immediately
Inconsistent Contact Information
Scammers might use slightly altered versions of real company logos or phone numbers in their messages. Visit the company’s official website and use the contact information found there to reach out.
How to Protect Yourself from Package Delivery Scams
Knowledge is power! Here are some actionable steps to keep yourself safe from scams.
Never Give Out Personal Information Over the Phone or Through Text
If you receive a suspicious message or phone call, don’t respond. Scammers are looking to trick you into revealing sensitive information like your credit card number, Social Security number, or banking details. These details can be used to steal your money or identity.
Do this instead: contact the delivery company directly using the phone number listed on their official website. Legitimate companies will never ask for personal information through unsolicited calls or texts.
Don’t Rely on Caller ID
Unfortunately, Caller ID cannot always be trusted. Scammers can easily spoof numbers to make their calls seam real. Be wary of any unexpected calls, especially those claiming there’s an issue with your delivery.
Do this instead: if you receive a call about a delivery, don’t confirm any personal information. Instead, politely tell the caller you’ll check the status of your delivery online or contact the company directly and hang up. For an even safer option, let the call go directly to voicemail. This allows you to deal with any potential issues calmly and in your own time.
Don’t Click on Suspicious Links
Phishing emails and texts often contain malicious links that can download malware onto your device or redirect you to fake websites designed to steal your information. These fake websites may look like real company websites, but they are designed to trick you into giving away sensitive information.
Do this instead: type the web address into your browser or do a web search to find the company.
Be Wary of Unexpected Delivery Notices
If you find a note on your door claiming a missed delivery and a phone number to reschedule, be cautious. Don’t scan the QR code or call the phone number until you’re sure they’re legitimate.
Do this instead: contact the delivery company directly using the phone number listed on their official website to inquire about any missed deliveries. You can also check the tracking information for your recent orders to see if there are any updates.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Reporting scams helps the FTC track down scammers and take action against them. The more information they have, the better equipped they are to shut the fraudsters down and protect consumers.
Track Your Packages
Keep tabs on your online orders and expected delivery dates. Most online retailers and delivery companies allow you to track your packages online using your order number or tracking information. By staying informed about your expected deliveries, you’ll be less likely to fall victim to a scammer’s claims of a missed delivery or unexpected package.
Don’t get Boxed into a Scam
While an unexpected delivery might offer a thrill of anticipation, it’s important to stay safe. With a little knowledge and a plan in place, you can outsmart the scammers and avoid getting wrapped up in a package delivery scam.
This article was originally shared via our education partner, MoneyIQ.
