Skip to main content

Cookies on BBB.org

We use cookies to give users the best content and online experience. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to allow us to use all cookies. Visit our Privacy Policy to learn more.

Cookie Preferences

Many websites use cookies or similar tools to store information on your browser or device. We use cookies on BBB websites to remember your preferences, improve website performance and enhance user experience, and to recommend content we believe will be most relevant to you. Most cookies collect anonymous information such as how users arrive at and use the website. Some cookies are necessary to allow the website to function properly, but you may choose to not allow other types of cookies below.

Necessary Cookies

What are necessary cookies?
These cookies are necessary for the site to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you that amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

Necessary cookies must always be enabled.

Functional Cookies

What are functional cookies?
These cookies enable the site to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. They may be set by us or by third party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, some or all of these services may not function properly.

Performance Cookies

What are performance cookies?
These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site, and will not be able to monitor its performance.

Marketing Cookies

What are marketing cookies?
These cookies may be set through our site by our advertising partners. They may be used by those companies to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant content on other sites. They do not store personal information directly, but are based on uniquely identifying your browser or device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will experience less targeted advertising.
      Country
          Country
          Latest News

          BBB Scam Alert: Don't click on that text! 5 ways to avoid delivery scams

          By Better Business Bureau. October 5, 2023.
          woman with a stressed look looking at cell phone at table

          (Getty Images)

          Some consumers have recently been getting text messages stating that a major delivery carrier needs them to "update delivery preferences" on a package by clicking a link. The problem? The text is a scam and the link results in the theft of personal information.

          Most consumers love the convenience of making purchases online and having them shipped straight to their doorstep. But with millions of packages delivered each year, con artists and thieves have developed many ways to steal from shoppers. Fortunately, there are also many ways to protect yourself from their shady tactics.

          Popular delivery scams

          Delivery scams and theft are particularly prevalent during the holidays when more packages are shipped, but they can happen year-round. Scammers are hoping shoppers are busy or distracted and will act without thinking. 

          The first scams to look out for are phishing texts or emails that pose as official notices from delivery companies. These either contain a "tracking link," a message that the shipper is having difficulty delivering a package to you, or, most recently, a link to update delivery preferences. Clicking the link either takes you to a form that asks for personally identifying information or to a site that downloads malware onto your computer.

          Another delivery scam involves fake "missed delivery" tags. Scammers place a note on your door that claims they are having challenges delivering a package to you. They ask you to call a phone number to reschedule your delivery, but it's a ruse to get your personal information.

          A different delivery scam includes a text stating, "The USPS package has arrived at the warehouse and cannot be delivered due to incomplete address information. Please confirm your addressin the link. https://realmastm.com (Please reply to 1, then exit the SMS, open the SMS activation link again, or copy the link to Safari browser and open it) The US Postal team wishes you a wonderful day."

          Another issue shoppers face is package theft. Many consumers have had their packages stolen before they arrive home from work. Thieves snatch packages from doorsteps or lobbies of apartment or condo complexes. Criminals even follow delivery and postal trucks. When the truck leaves, the crooks move in and grab the parcels.

          How to avoid delivery scams:

          1. Take precautions to ensure a safe delivery: If you have a valuable or fragile item delivered to your home, purchase shipping insurance. In addition, always get tracking numbers for your purchases and check the shipping progress periodically.

          2. Watch out for texts, calls, or emails about a missed delivery. Legitimate delivery services usually leave a "missed delivery" notice on your door. If you receive a missed delivery notice, examine the form carefully to make sure it is authentic, and only then follow their instructions. Keep track of what you've ordered to better understand what is coming and when. Don't click on links; go to the delivery carrier's website directly or log in and use the retailer's tracking tools. 

          3. Request a signature: Chances are this feature may come with a price tag, but it may be worth the extra fee. Requesting a signature means that a delivery service won't be able to drop a package on your doorstep unless someone is around to sign for it.

          4. Don't leave packages sitting on your doorstep. Packages left sitting outside are particularly vulnerable to theft. To ensure safe delivery, have your package delivered to your workplace or a trusted friend or neighbor who will be home to accept delivery. Some delivery companies now have lockers where your packages can securely wait for you to pick them up using a one-time code to open the locker.  

          5. Open your delivery upon receipt to check for damage or signs of tampering. Contact the seller immediately if you believe something is wrong with the shipment or it's not what you ordered. Also, review the seller's return policy for damaged or unwanted items. 

           

          For more information

          See BBB's holiday HQ for more holiday-related tips and information.

          Read more about package scams.

          Visit BBB.org/AvoidScams to learn more, and if you've been the victim of a delivery scam, please report it at BBB.org/ScamTracker. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to similar scams.

          The Better Business Bureaus serving Chicago and Northern Illinois, Detroit and Eastern Michigan, Central New England, North Alabama, and Acadiana contributed to this article.