very scams are fraudulent attempts to impersonate UPS, the well-known shipping company. Scammers send out fake emails, text messages, or even social media DMs that look like official UPS communications. Their goal is to trick recipients into clicking malicious links, downloading malware, or divulging sensitive information like account logins, credit card details, or Social Security numbers.
Last updated: June 18, 2026
These scams exploit the common experience of receiving packages. By using the trust people place in a reputable brand like UPS, they create a sense of urgency or importance that might override a recipient’s usual caution. As of June 2026, these tactics are more refined than ever.
Common Tactics Used in Fake UPS Delivery Messages
Scammers employ a variety of psychological triggers and deceptive techniques to make their fake UPS delivery notices appear legitimate. Understanding these tactics is your first line of defense.
One prevalent tactic is the “failed delivery attempt” notification. You might receive a message stating that UPS attempted to deliver a package but couldn’t, and you need to reschedule or pay a small fee to have it redelivered. This plays on your desire to receive your item.
Another common ploy involves fake tracking updates. Scammers send messages with a tracking number that looks real, urging you to click a link to “track your package” or “view delivery status.” These links often lead to phishing sites designed to steal your UPS login credentials or personal data.
And, some fake UPS delivery scams demand payment for supposed customs duties, taxes, or redelivery fees. They create a sense of urgency, implying your package will be returned or held indefinitely if you don’t pay immediately. According to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) as of 2026, delivery fee scams are a significant category of imposter fraud.
Red Flags: How to Spot a Fake UPS Delivery Notification
While scammers are getting better, there are usually tell-tale signs that a UPS delivery notification isn’t legitimate. Being observant can save you a lot of trouble.
First, scrutinize the sender’s information. Real UPS emails typically come from addresses ending in @ups.com. If the email address is something like @ups-delivery-status.com, @ups-package-info.net, or a free email service (like Gmail or Yahoo), it’s a major red flag. Scammers often use domain names that are very similar but not identical to the official one.
Pay close attention to grammar and spelling. While even legitimate companies can have typos, a message riddled with grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, or poor punctuation is often a sign of a scam. Official communications from large corporations like UPS are usually professionally proofread.
Be wary of urgent or demanding language. Scammers often try to rush you into action by creating a false sense of urgency. Phrases like “Your package is being held, action required immediately!” or threats of returning the package if you don’t act fast are common in fake UPS delivery alerts.
Lastly, look at the links and attachments. Hover your mouse over any links in the email (without clicking!) to see the actual URL. If the URL doesn’t match the official UPS website (ups.com), or if it looks suspicious, don’t click it. Never download attachments from unknown or suspicious sources, as they could contain malware.
Variations of Fake UPS Delivery Scams
The fake UPS delivery scam landscape is diverse, with scammers constantly evolving their methods. Understanding these variations can help you stay vigilant.
One common type is the “delivery fee scam.” This involves a message claiming you owe a small fee (e.g., $2-$5) for customs, taxes, or redelivery. The goal here is to get your credit card details. They might use fake tracking numbers to make it seem like a real package is involved.
Another variation is the “package redirection scam.” Here, you’re asked to confirm your delivery address or provide additional delivery instructions via a link. This is often a phishing attempt to capture your personal details, including your full name, address, and potentially even your UPS account login.
Then there are the “account alert scams.” These messages falsely claim there’s suspicious activity on your UPS My Choice account or a problem with your account settings. They prompt you to log in via a fake link to “secure your account,” thereby stealing your credentials.
As of June 2026, some advanced scams even involve QR codes. You might receive a message with a QR code that supposedly links to tracking information or delivery rescheduling. Scanning these codes can lead to malicious websites or automatically download malware onto your device.
What To Do If You Receive a Fake UPS Message
Encountering a suspicious message is common, but knowing how to respond is crucial. The best approach is to remain calm and follow a clear protocol.
First and foremost, don’t click any links, download any attachments, or reply to the message. Engaging with the scammer often confirms your email or phone number is active, potentially leading to more unwanted contact.
The most effective way to verify a delivery issue is to go directly to the source. Open a new browser window and manually type in the official UPS website address: www.ups.com. Log in to your UPS My Choice account there, or use their official tracking tool with your tracking number if you have one. This bypasses any suspicious links and connects you to the real UPS system.
If you are certain the message is fraudulent, you can report it. Most shipping companies, including UPS, have a dedicated channel for reporting phishing attempts. Forwarding the suspicious email to UPS at fraud@ups.com is a good step. According to UPS’s own security guidelines, reporting these messages helps them protect other customers.
If You Fell Victim to a Fake UPS Delivery Scam
Mistakes happen, and it’s important to act quickly if you believe you’ve fallen victim to a fake UPS delivery scam. The faster you respond, the more you can mitigate potential damage.
If you clicked a link and entered your UPS login credentials, immediately go to the official UPS website (ups.com) and change your password. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your UPS account if you haven’t already. According to cybersecurity experts, 2FA significantly enhances account security.
If you provided credit card or banking information, contact your financial institution immediately. Explain the situation and ask them to block any fraudulent transactions and issue you a new card. They can guide you on steps to protect your accounts.
If you downloaded an attachment or suspect your device is infected with malware, run a full scan with reputable antivirus and anti-malware software. Consider consulting a cybersecurity professional if you’re unsure about the extent of the compromise.
You should also report the scam to relevant authorities. In the United States, this includes the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Reporting helps these agencies track scams and warn others. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service also handles mail fraud, and UPS’s own security department welcomes reports.
Protecting Yourself: Best Practices for Delivery Scams
The best defense against fake UPS delivery scams is proactive vigilance and adopting smart online habits. Here are some key practices to keep you safe going forward in 2026 and beyond.
Always verify delivery information directly. If you’re expecting a package, use the official UPS tracking website or app. If you receive an unexpected notification, confirm the tracking number with your order details from the original seller before interacting with the message.
Be skeptical of unsolicited communications, especially those asking for money or personal information. Legitimate companies like UPS rarely ask for sensitive data or payment via email or text for standard deliveries. They typically have established procedures for such matters.
Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts, including your UPS account. A password manager can help you generate and store complex passwords securely. Remember to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible; it adds a critical layer of security.
Keep your devices and software updated. Operating system updates and antivirus software often include patches for security vulnerabilities that scammers exploit. Regularly scanning your devices can catch any potential malware before it causes harm.
Educate yourself and your family about common online scams. Awareness is a powerful tool. By understanding how these fake UPS delivery scams work, you’re far less likely to fall prey to them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fake UPS Delivery Scams
Can UPS send text messages about delivery issues?
Yes, UPS does send legitimate text messages for delivery notifications, rescheduling, and alerts. However, these messages will typically come from a short code number and direct you to the official ups.com website for details, rather than a suspicious link.
What should I do if a UPS scam asks for payment?
If a UPS message requests payment for delivery fees, taxes, or customs, treat it as a scam. Don’t click any links or provide payment information. Instead, go directly to the official UPS website to check for any legitimate charges related to a package you are expecting.
How can I tell if a UPS tracking number is fake?
While fake tracking numbers are part of the scam, a legitimate UPS tracking number usually follows a specific format and can be verified on the official UPS tracking site. Scammers might use slightly altered numbers or numbers that don’t work on the official tracker.
Are UPS email scams common?
Yes, UPS email scams are very common. Scammers frequently impersonate UPS through phishing emails that mimic official branding and language, aiming to steal login credentials or financial information from unsuspecting recipients.
What is the official UPS website for tracking packages?
The official website for tracking UPS packages is www.ups.com. Always ensure you are on this exact URL before entering any tracking numbers or logging into your account.
Can I report a fake UPS delivery notification?
Absolutely. You should report fake UPS delivery notifications to UPS by forwarding the suspicious email to fraud@ups.com. You can also report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov to help combat these scams.
Stay Vigilant Against Delivery Scams
Fake UPS delivery scams are a persistent threat in 2026, preying on our anticipation for packages. By understanding their common tactics, knowing the red flags, and always verifying information directly through official channels, you can significantly reduce your risk.
Your most powerful tool against these scams is skepticism. Always question unsolicited messages, especially those that create urgency or ask for money. Stay informed, stay safe, and protect your personal and financial information from these deceptive schemes.
Last reviewed: June 2026. Information current as of publication; pricing and product details may change.
Editorial Note: This article was researched and written by the A Wandering Steeper editorial team. We fact-check our content and update it regularly. For questions or corrections, contact us.
