Have you received an email that looks like it is from FedEx, asking you to “Please Complete Delivery Adress” and instructing you to open a link to view a Tax Withholding Certificate (TWC)? At first glance, it may appear authentic. It might even come from an address like no-reply@fedex.com, use official-looking formatting, and reference legal-sounding terms. However, this is not a legitimate FedEx message. It is a carefully designed phishing scam that aims to trick unsuspecting recipients into providing personal or financial information.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the FedEx “Please Complete Delivery Adress” email scam. You will learn exactly what it is, how it operates step by step, and what to do if you have fallen victim. With scams like this growing more sophisticated every year, staying informed is the best defense.
Scam Overview
The FedEx – Please Complete Delivery Adress Email Scam is one of many phishing attempts disguised as courier delivery notices. Cybercriminals know that people rely heavily on delivery services, especially FedEx, UPS, and DHL. By sending an email that looks urgent and delivery-related, scammers hope recipients will act quickly without thinking.
The fraudulent email usually has the subject line “Please Complete Delivery Adress”. It may look professional, including the FedEx logo, a sender name of “FedEx,” and a reply address such as no-reply@fedex.com. The body of the email often reads like this:
At first glance, nothing seems too suspicious. It appears like a routine notification. However, closer inspection reveals several red flags:
Spelling Error: The subject line says “Adress” instead of “Address.” FedEx would not send official communication with such errors.
Strange Attachment or Link: The “View TWC” button is not something FedEx would send. Delivery companies do not ask customers to download tax-related certificates.
Generic Greeting: Instead of addressing the recipient by name, it simply says “Good morning.” Legitimate FedEx emails typically reference your tracking number or order details.
Unrelated Tax Reference: FedEx does not handle tax withholding documents. Mentioning a Tax Withholding Certificate (TWC) is irrelevant and suspicious.
Phishing scams like this thrive on urgency and confusion. The scammers hope the recipient will panic, assume their package is delayed, and click the link. Once clicked, the link usually redirects to a malicious website designed to steal information.
Why This Scam Works
This scam exploits several psychological triggers:
Urgency: People do not want to miss or delay a delivery.
Authority: The email appears to come from a trusted company.
Fear: Mention of taxes makes the recipient anxious.
Curiosity: The unfamiliar reference to a Tax Withholding Certificate pushes the reader to find out more.
Since many people receive packages regularly, especially from FedEx, this scam has a high success rate. Attackers know that if even a small fraction of recipients fall for the trap, the scam pays off.
Scale of the Scam
Phishing attempts like this are not isolated. Security researchers have detected waves of such emails, often sent to millions of recipients at once. Attackers rotate tactics and language, but the goal remains the same: harvest sensitive data such as:
Login credentials (email, bank, or FedEx accounts)
Payment card details
Personal identity information
Corporate access credentials (if sent to company employees)
By pretending to be FedEx, scammers leverage brand trust to bypass suspicion. FedEx has repeatedly warned customers that it never requests personal or financial information via email. Yet many people remain unaware and vulnerable.
How the Scam Works
To truly understand the FedEx “Please Complete Delivery Adress” scam, it helps to break it down into clear stages. Each stage is carefully designed to manipulate the victim into taking harmful actions.
Step 1: Mass Email Distribution
The scammers begin by sending out massive email campaigns. Using botnets, hacked servers, or phishing-as-a-service kits, they deliver millions of fake FedEx emails to inboxes worldwide. The goal is to cast a wide net. Since many people are waiting for deliveries at any given time, the odds of someone taking the bait are high.
Step 2: The Subject Line and Sender Deception
The subject line typically reads: “Please Complete Delivery Adress”. This immediately triggers curiosity and concern. Even though “Address” is misspelled, many recipients overlook it due to haste. The sender address may look official, such as no-reply@fedex.com, but in reality, it is spoofed. Scammers use techniques like domain spoofing to make the email appear legitimate.
Step 3: The Message Content
The body of the email is short and professional-looking. It references a Tax Withholding Certificate (TWC) and urges the recipient to View TWC. The short, polite tone mimics corporate communication. Importantly, it does not overwhelm the reader with details, leaving them eager to click.
Step 4: The Malicious Link
The View TWC button is the trap. Clicking it usually takes the victim to one of two places:
A Fake FedEx Website: The website looks identical to FedEx’s real login page. Victims are prompted to enter their FedEx username and password. Once submitted, those credentials are stolen.
A Malware Download: In some cases, the link automatically downloads a file, such as a PDF or ZIP. This file often contains malware, such as keyloggers, spyware, or ransomware.
Step 5: Data Harvesting
If the victim enters information into the fake site, scammers capture it instantly. Login details are often resold on the dark web or used for further fraud. If malware is installed, it silently collects sensitive data from the victim’s device over time.
Step 6: Further Exploitation
Once scammers have access, they may:
Steal payment card details stored in accounts
Intercept sensitive company emails (if corporate accounts are compromised)
Commit identity theft
Demand ransom payments (if ransomware is installed)
The attack may also expand. If malware captures the victim’s email contacts, scammers can send new phishing messages to those contacts, making the scam spread like a chain reaction.
Step 7: Covering Tracks
Cybercriminals often use techniques to avoid detection, such as:
Short-lived malicious domains
Encryption of stolen data
Regularly changing email templates
This makes it difficult for authorities and security companies to shut down the scams quickly.
What to Do if You Have Fallen Victim
If you realize that you have clicked the View TWC button or entered your details, quick action is essential. Follow these steps immediately:
1. Disconnect from the Internet
If you suspect malware was downloaded, disconnect your device from the internet. This prevents further data transfer to the attacker.
2. Do Not Open Any More Links
Stop interacting with the email. Do not reply, download files, or click any other links.
3. Change Your Passwords
If you entered your FedEx account details, log in from a secure device and reset your password immediately. Do the same for any accounts that use the same or similar password.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Turn on 2FA wherever possible. This adds a second layer of security, making it harder for attackers to access your accounts.
5. Scan Your Device for Malware
Run a full system scan with updated antivirus software. Remove any threats that are detected.
6. Contact Your Bank or Credit Card Company
If you entered financial details, notify your bank or card provider right away. They can monitor for suspicious transactions or issue new cards.
Check your financial statements, email activity, and credit reports regularly. Look out for unauthorized transactions or logins.
9. Educate Yourself and Others
Learn how to spot phishing attempts. Warn family members, friends, or colleagues who may also be targeted.
10. Consider Identity Theft Protection
If sensitive information was stolen, you may want to use a professional identity theft protection service. These services monitor for misuse of your personal data.
Is Your Device Infected? Scan for Malware
If your computer or phone is slow, showing unwanted pop-ups, or acting strangely, malware could be the cause. Running a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is one of the most reliable ways to detect and remove harmful software. The free version can identify and clean common infections such as adware, browser hijackers, trojans, and other unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes works on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Choose your operating system below and follow the steps to scan your device and remove any malware that might be slowing it down.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes
Download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows using the official link below. Malwarebytes will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software for free.
(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
Install Malwarebytes
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Once the scan completes, remove all detected threats. Your Windows computer should now be clean and running smoothly again, free of trojans, adware, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
After scanning, delete any detected threats. Your Mac should now be free from adware, unwanted extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
When the scan is finished, remove all detected threats. Your Android phone should now be free of malicious apps, adware, and unwanted browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
After cleaning your device, it’s important to protect it from future infections and annoying pop-ups. We recommend installing an ad blocker such as AdGuard. AdGuard blocks malicious ads, prevents phishing attempts, and stops dangerous redirects, helping you stay safe while browsing online.
Frequently Asked Questions About the FedEx – Please Complete Delivery Adress Email Scam
What is the “FedEx – Please Complete Delivery Adress” email scam?
The “FedEx – Please Complete Delivery Adress” email scam is a phishing attempt where cybercriminals impersonate FedEx. Victims receive an email that appears to be from FedEx, often using the subject line “Please Complete Delivery Adress.” The email usually includes a message about a Tax Withholding Certificate (TWC) and a button or link labeled “View TWC.” Clicking on the link directs victims to a fraudulent website designed to steal personal and financial information.
Why is this email dangerous?
This scam is dangerous because it tricks victims into believing they must complete an urgent task related to a delivery. If the recipient clicks the malicious link, they may be asked to provide sensitive details such as their full name, home address, phone number, credit card information, or even banking credentials. Hackers then use this information for identity theft, unauthorized purchases, or selling data on the dark web.
How can I recognize a fake FedEx email?
There are several warning signs that an email is not truly from FedEx:
Misspellings and grammar errors – “Adress” instead of “Address” is a clear red flag.
Suspicious sender address – The email may look like it comes from no-reply@fedex.com, but when inspected closely, it could be from a slightly altered domain.
Unfamiliar attachments or links – FedEx does not send Tax Withholding Certificates via email.
Urgency and fear tactics – Scammers pressure you to act quickly to avoid losing a delivery.
Generic greetings – Instead of using your name, they say “Good morning” or “Dear customer.”
Does FedEx ever ask customers to complete delivery details via email?
No. FedEx does not request sensitive tax forms, certificates, or payment confirmations through email links. If there is a legitimate delivery issue, FedEx will contact you directly through their official website or by phone.
What should I do if I receive a suspicious FedEx email?
If you suspect the email is a scam:
Do not click any links or download attachments.
Do not reply to the sender.
Forward the suspicious email to abuse@fedex.com for verification.
Delete the message from your inbox and trash folder.
What happens if I already clicked the link in the scam email?
If you clicked the link but did not enter any information, your risk is lower, but you should still:
Run a full antivirus scan on your device.
Clear your browser cache and history.
Change any saved FedEx-related passwords.
If you entered personal or financial information, you must act immediately:
Contact your bank or credit card company to report possible fraud.
Monitor your accounts for unusual transactions.
Place a fraud alert with a credit bureau.
Consider reporting the scam to your local consumer protection agency.
Can scammers use my information if I only opened the email?
Simply opening the email does not usually expose your information. The real danger occurs if you click links, download attachments, or reply with personal data. However, some scam emails may include tracking pixels that confirm your email address is active, which can lead to more spam and phishing attempts.
How can I protect myself from FedEx email scams in the future?
To protect yourself:
Always verify delivery updates directly through the official FedEx website.
Enable two-factor authentication on your email accounts.
Use a reliable spam filter and security software.
Be skeptical of unsolicited requests for payment or personal data.
Is this scam happening only in the United States?
No. The “Please Complete Delivery Adress” scam is global. Scammers adjust the language, logos, and domain names to match local regions. Victims have reported similar fraudulent emails in the United States, Europe, Asia, and other parts of the world.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov (U.S.).
Your country’s cybercrime authority: Many governments have hotlines or reporting portals.
Your email provider: Mark the email as phishing to help filter future scams.
The Bottom Line
The FedEx – Please Complete Delivery Adress Email Scam is a dangerous phishing scheme designed to steal personal and financial information. While it may appear professional and legitimate, several clues reveal its fraudulent nature, including spelling errors, suspicious links, and irrelevant tax references. By understanding how the scam works and acting quickly if targeted, you can protect yourself and others.
Always remember: FedEx will never ask for sensitive personal or financial details through unsolicited emails. If you receive such a message, delete it immediately and report it. Staying cautious and informed is the most effective way to stay safe from phishing scams.
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
