Fake FedEx Tracking Number Phishing Scam
Fraudsters send emails with fabricated FedEx tracking numbers to create the appearance of a legitimate shipment notification, then direct recipients to phishing sites through embedded links. Any tracking number can be verified instantly at fedex.com before taking any action.
Part of: Fake Tracking Number Scams
Last reviewed: 7 June 2026
A realistic-looking FedEx tracking number lends credibility to an otherwise generic phishing email. Criminals generate plausible tracking codes — often mimicking the format of genuine FedEx Express or FedEx Ground numbers — and pair them with urgent messages about delivery delays, address issues, or customs holds.
This approach targets the routine: many people receive FedEx tracking emails as a normal part of online shopping, so an email with a tracking number and a 'click to resolve' button fits naturally into existing expectations.
The decisive test takes under ten seconds: copy the tracking number and paste it into the FedEx tracking tool at fedex.com. A genuine shipment will show status details; a fake one will return an error or unrelated result.
How this scam works on the FedEx brand
Phishing emails have subject lines such as 'FedEx Shipment [tracking number] — Delivery Exception' and describe an issue — incorrect address, missing documentation, or customs hold — that requires the recipient to click a link and provide information or payment.
The linked page replicates FedEx's website design and may request the recipient's name, address, and card details under the guise of 'confirming delivery preferences' or 'paying customs fees.'
Business-targeted variants embed fake tracking numbers in fraudulent FedEx invoices sent to accounts payable departments, seeking payment for shipping services never rendered. These invoice fraud variants do not link to a login page but instead provide bank transfer details.
Common red flags
- Tracking number does not resolve or shows an unrelated shipment at fedex.com
- Email link goes to a non-fedex.com domain
- Payment or personal data requested via a link to resolve a delivery exception
- FedEx invoice arrives from a [email protected] email address
- No record of the shipment from a known sender
- Email lacks the tracking number in the FedEx standard format
- Invoice requests bank transfer to an account not previously used with FedEx
How to protect yourself
- Verify every FedEx tracking number at fedex.com before taking any other action
- Log in to your FedEx account to see all shipments linked to your details
- Forward suspicious FedEx emails to [email protected]
- For suspicious invoices, verify with your FedEx account manager via a number from fedex.com
- Never pay a customs or exception fee through a link in an email
How to report it
- Forward suspicious emails to [email protected]
- Forward smishing texts to 7726
- Report invoice fraud to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or the FBI IC3 at ic3.gov
- Report to Action Fraud (UK) at actionfraud.police.uk
- Contact your bank if any payment was made to a fraudulent account
Frequently asked questions
What format do real FedEx tracking numbers use?
FedEx tracking numbers vary by service: FedEx Express typically uses 12 numeric digits, FedEx Ground uses 15-22 digits, and FedEx SmartPost uses 22 digits beginning with '61'. You can verify any number free at fedex.com.
Can I receive a fake FedEx tracking email even if I use FedEx regularly?
Yes. Phishing emails are sent to large lists of addresses and are not targeted to actual FedEx customers. The presence of a tracking number makes them appear relevant even if you never ordered anything.