Is a 'package undeliverable' text from USPS real?
Treat it as suspicious. Fake 'undeliverable package' texts are among the most common smishing scams — verify only through USPS's official website.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Fraudulent texts impersonating USPS, Royal Mail, FedEx, UPS, and other carriers claim a delivery attempt failed and that you need to click a link to reschedule or pay a redelivery fee. The link leads to a convincing fake website that captures your card details, personal information, or login credentials.
Genuine missed-delivery notices from carriers are typically left as physical cards at your door or available through the carrier's official app or website. They do not ask for card payments via a text link for redelivery. If you are expecting a parcel, go directly to the carrier's official website and enter your tracking number to check its status — never via a link sent in an unsolicited text.
Common red flags
- Unexpected 'failed delivery' text about a parcel you weren't expecting
- Link goes to a domain that doesn't match the carrier's official website
- Small fee required to reschedule delivery — designed to seem plausible
- Urgency — 'parcel returned to sender after 24 hours'
- No tracking number provided, or it doesn't match the carrier's records
- Text asks for card details including CVV or billing address
What to do now
- Do not click the link or enter any payment or personal details
- Go directly to the carrier's official website and check your tracking number
- Forward the text to 7726 to report it to your mobile provider
- Report the scam to your national fraud service
- If you already entered card details, call your bank immediately
Frequently asked questions
I am expecting a package from USPS — could the text still be fake?
Yes. Scammers send these in large volumes knowing many recipients will be expecting something. Even if you are expecting a parcel, verify only through the USPS website directly using your tracking number.
What does the official USPS website address look like?
The official US Postal Service website is usps.com. Any text link going to a different domain — even one with 'usps' in the URL — should be treated with caution.