The Fake Tracking Notification

Flggd Scam School · Delivery, Refund & Logistics Scams · Lesson 1 of 5

A text says your package can't be delivered, and there's a link to fix it. If you're wondering whether that fake USPS tracking text is real, here's how to tell in under a minute.

The message looks like this

USPS: Your package US9214872210 is on hold because of an incomplete delivery address. Confirm your details within 12 hours or the item will be returned to sender: usps-track-delivery.info

Why this is a scam

Real delivery companies already know your address. They don't need you to confirm it by text, and they don't cancel deliveries over a form you didn't fill in.

The link doesn't go to USPS. It goes to a copycat page that asks for your name, address, and card details, usually for a small "redelivery fee". The fee isn't the prize. Your card number is.

These texts are sent out by the million. The scammers don't know if you're expecting a package. They just know that most of us usually are.

Red flags checklist

• The link isn't usps.com - extra words like "usps-track-delivery" are a giveaway.

• There's a deadline: confirm "within 12 hours" or lose the package.

• You're asked to pay a small fee to release a delivery.

• The text came from a random mobile number or email address.

• There's no tracking number that matches an order you actually placed.

The manipulation tactic

This scam runs on urgency. A ticking clock makes you act before you think; and a tiny fee makes it feel too small to be dangerous.

What to do - and what not to do

• Don't tap the link. Not even to look.

• Check your order directly with the shop you bought from.

• Want to track a package? Type usps.com into your browser yourself.

• Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) (US only), then delete it.

• Never enter card details to "release" a delivery.

Not sure about a message you've received? Check it in seconds with the free Flggd app.