Is this package delivery fee text a scam?
Commonly seen since 2023. Last reviewed 2026-06-05.
Check your exact messageExample only - do not act on it
Example only: Your parcel is on hold because of an unpaid delivery fee. Pay now to release it: [fake-link removed]
Why this message is suspicious
- Real couriers rarely collect fees by random text with a link.
- It creates urgency so you act before checking.
- The link does not go to the courier's official domain.
- It asks for card or personal details on a web form.
What the scammer wants
- Your card details
- A small 'fee' payment
- Personal information for follow-up fraud
Common variations
- Customs clearance fee required
- Address incomplete, confirm details
- Redelivery fee needed
- Parcel waiting at depot
Red flags to watch for
What to do now
- Do not tap the link.
- Find your tracking number on the retailer's official site or app.
- Contact the courier through its official website or app.
What not to do
- Do not pay any 'release' fee.
- Do not call numbers in the message.
- Do not re-enter card details to 'verify' them.
If you already responded
Act quickly - the sooner you respond, the more you can limit. Find the situation that matches what you did:
If you clicked a link: If you only opened the page, close it and do not enter anything. If you typed card or personal details, follow the guide on clicking a scam link and contact your bank.
If you paid: Contact your bank or card provider immediately to stop or dispute the charge, and watch for further attempts.
If you shared a code, OTP, or login: Treat any account tied to that code as at risk: change the password from a trusted device and contact the provider.
If you only clicked the link but entered nothing: close the page, don't enter anything, and watch the linked accounts for unusual activity. Full steps →
If you entered card details: contact your bank now to freeze the card and dispute charges, then watch your statement. Full steps →
If you shared an OTP or one-time code: the scammer may be logging in right now - change the password, sign out other sessions, and turn on app-based 2FA. Full steps →
If you sent money: contact your bank or payment provider immediately to try to stop or recall it, and report it. Full steps →
If you installed an app / gave remote access: disconnect from the internet, uninstall it, and change key passwords from a different, trusted device. Full steps →
If you shared passport, ID, or KYC documents: watch for identity theft, consider a credit freeze or fraud alert, and keep the evidence. Full steps →
Watch out for a second scam. People who've just lost money are often contacted again by a fake "recovery" service promising to get it back for an upfront fee. Legitimate recovery never starts with a fee paid to someone who contacted you - see recovery scams.
First time dealing with this? Start with the first 24 hours after a scam checklist and how to save evidence.
How to report it
Report through official channels for your country. Use our scam reporting directory to find the right authority, and never use phone numbers or links from the suspicious message itself. If an official link looks outdated, tell us so we can review it.
Official sources checked
- FTC Consumer Advice - Imposter scams High reliability
Government alert
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Law-enforcement alert
Reviewed 2026-06-05. See our methodology for how we select sources.
Related pages
- Delivery scam
- Fake delivery scam
- Smishing (SMS phishing)
- What to do if you clicked a scam link
- What to do if you paid a fake delivery fee
Related platforms
Frequently asked questions
Do couriers ask for fees by text?
Legitimate couriers very rarely collect fees through an unexpected text with a link. Verify through the official app or website instead.
I already paid the fee. What now?
Contact your bank or card provider immediately to dispute the charge, and be alert for follow-up 'refund' or 'recovery' scams.