The “Your Package Cannot Be Delivered” text scam is a form of phishing that primarily targets individuals through their mobile devices. Scammers send a text message claiming to be from a reputable delivery service company, such as USPS, UPS, FedEx, or DHL. The message informs the recipient that there is a package waiting for them, but it cannot be delivered due to a problem such as unpaid shipping fees, incorrect address details, or a customs issue. It typically includes a link for the recipient to click on to resolve the supposed issue. The link, however, leads to a fraudulent website designed to harvest personal information or deliver malicious software.

How Does Your Package Cannot Be Delivered Text Scam Work?

This particular scam, the US9514961195221 – Your Package Cannot Be Delivered, operates in much the same way. The scammers send out a mass text message that appears to be from USPS, referencing a specific tracking number: US9514961195221. The recipient is told that their package cannot be delivered, and they are provided with a link to click on to resolve the issue.

When clicked, the link redirects to a fake USPS website. The site typically prompts the user to enter personal information such as their full name, address, and phone number, supposedly to verify their identity or update the delivery details. In some cases, it may ask for credit card details or other financial information, ostensibly to pay for additional shipping costs or customs fees. However, any information entered on this site goes straight to the scammers.

How to Spot Scams That Mimic the USPS?

Spotting scams that mimic USPS or other reputable delivery services can be challenging, especially as scammers become increasingly sophisticated. However, there are some tell-tale signs you can look out for:

1. Unsolicited Communication: If you haven’t ordered anything recently and aren’t expecting a package, be skeptical of any messages claiming to be about a delivery.
2. Poor Grammar or Spelling: While not always the case, many scam messages contain grammatical errors or misspellings.
3. Urgency: Scam messages often create a sense of urgency, claiming that your package will be returned or destroyed if you don’t act immediately.
4. Request for Personal Information: Legitimate delivery services typically do not ask for personal or financial information via text or email.
5. Unofficial URLs: Always check the URL of the site you are directed to. If it doesn’t match the official website of the company it claims to represent, it’s likely a scam.

What to Do When You Receive the Scam Text?

If you receive a scam text, here are the steps you should take:

1. Do Not Click on Any Links: Clicking on the links can lead you to fraudulent websites or download malicious software to your device.
2. Do Not Provide Personal Information: Never provide personal or financial information in response to a text message or email.
3. Report the Scam: Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM), and to the supposed company it claims to represent.
4. Delete the Message: Once you’ve reported the scam, delete the message from your device.

Scammers Phone Numbers and Fake USPS Sites

Scammers often use temporary or “burner” phone numbers to send their messages, making it difficult to track them. If you receive a suspicious message, it’s best not to engage or call the number back. Instead, report it as detailed above.

Fake USPS sites can look very convincing, often mimicking the design and layout of the official USPS website. However, the URL will be different. The official USPS website is www.usps.com. Any other variation,

especially if it ends with anything other than ‘.com’, is likely a scam.

Real-Life Examples of Scam Texts

Here are some examples of scam texts that have been reported:

• “USPS: Your package with the tracking number US9514961195221 can’t be delivered due to unpaid customs charges.
• “Parcel Notice: Your package HJ-5462-NY is pending at our distribution center. Please claim ownership and confirm delivery here

Report a Scam

If you receive a scam text message, you should report it. Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM). This will report the message to your mobile carrier and allow them to take action.

If the scam purports to be from USPS, you should also report it to them. You can do this via their website, by email to spam@uspis.gov, or by calling the USPS hotline at 1-877-876-2455.

In addition, you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.ftc.gov/complaint or call them on 1-877-FTC-HELP.

Remember, the best defense against scams is awareness and caution. Always be skeptical of unsolicited messages and never provide personal or financial information unless you are absolutely certain of who you are dealing with.