The USPS 'package on hold' text: how to tell it's a scam
What the message looks like
"Your package can't be delivered due to an incomplete address", with a link to pay a small redelivery fee.
How to tell it's a scam
The message says a package couldn't be delivered and asks you to confirm your address or pay a small fee to reschedule, through a link. The page it opens copies the USPS site and takes your card details.
USPS says it only texts people who asked for tracking updates, and those texts don't ask for payment. Check any tracking number yourself at usps.com instead of using the link.
The tell: Check your tracking number yourself at usps.com. The link is there to take your card details.
Got one? Check it in seconds
Paste the message into Alice's free scam checker. It shows the warning signs and the exact words that set them off, and the check runs on your own device.
Check a messageAlready clicked, paid or shared details?
If you've paid or given card details, call your bank or card issuer right away on the number on your card.
Where to report it in the US
- Scam or spam text: forward it to 7726 (SPAM) and report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Contacts checked on each organisation's own website, September 2026.
What to do with a message you're not sure about
- Don't click the link, reply, or call the number in the message.
- Check for yourself: open the company's own app, or type its website address yourself.
- If it claims to be family, call them on the number you already have.
- Report it (below), then delete it.
Warn your family or group chat
Scams work best on people who haven't seen them before.
Not sure? Ask Alice
Paste the message into a chat and choose "Is this a scam?". Alice lists the warning signs she can see, gives a verdict, and tells you where to report it. Leave out your own account numbers — she never needs them.
General guidance, not legal or financial advice. If money has already gone, contact your bank first.