Scams Texts

Texts scam · added Oct 21, 2026

USPS will never text you a link.

A text says your package is stuck and asks for a small redelivery fee. It is after your card number.

(555) 204-8861Text message

Recreation

Spot the tell. Tap the part that gives this scam away.

The tell

USPS: Your package is on hold due to an incomplete address. Pay the $1.99 redelivery fee within 24 hours:

The text has a link. Real USPS texts never do: not to pay a fee, not to fix your address.

Example from our recreation.

How it works

  1. The text says your package is stuck.
  2. The link opens a copy of the USPS site and asks for a small redelivery fee.
  3. That is how they get your card number.

What to do

  1. Don't tap the link.
  2. Check tracking on usps.com yourself.
  3. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM), then delete it.

Already fell for it?

Typed in your card number? Call your bank or card issuer now and ask for a new card, then report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

What to do if you were scammed

The numbers

$470 million
lost to scams that started with a text in 2024. Fake delivery texts were the most reported. Source: FTC, Apr 2025

Watch it

This scam is on The Tell as a short video. YouTube, TikTok or Instagram.

Sources

Checked Oct 21, 2026.

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