Scam pattern
Fake USPS “redelivery fee” text scam
The “your package is on hold, pay a small fee” text
A text claims a package is held and asks for a small redelivery fee through a link. USPS does not text you for delivery fees, and the link leads to a spoofed page that steals your card and personal details.
How it’s usually worded
- “USPS: Your package is on hold due to an unpaid fee. Confirm here: [link]”
- “We were unable to deliver your parcel. A $1.99 redelivery fee is required.”
- “Final notice: your shipment will be returned. Pay now to release it.”
Red-flag signals
- A tiny fee
$0.30–$3 feels harmless, but it's there to capture your card on a fake page.
- Urgency
“Final notice” / “today only” pressures you to act before you think.
- Look-alike link
Domains like usps-redelivery.xyz or usps.tracking-id.com — never usps.com.
- Unsolicited
You get it without expecting a package, or for a carrier you didn't use.
What to do
Don't tap the link. If you're expecting a package, go to usps.com directly (or your carrier's app) and track it there. Delete the text and report it to 7726 (SPAM).
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FAQ
Does USPS charge redelivery fees by text?
No. USPS does not send texts asking for payment to release a package. Any text asking for a fee via a link is a scam.
I already paid — what now?
Call your bank or card issuer immediately to dispute the charge and freeze the card, then change any password you reused on the fake site.