Beware of the USPS “Package Was Lost En Route” Scam
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
The United States Postal Service (USPS) delivers millions of packages every day. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of USPS’ huge delivery volume by sending phishing messages claiming packages were lost en route. Don’t let them fool you – this “USPS Package Was Lost” scam is entirely fake, aimed at stealing your personal information and money.
“USPS Package Was Lost En Route” Scam Overview
The “USPS Package Was Lost En Route” phishing scam starts with potential victims receiving a text message or email seemingly from the postal service. The message claims a package intended for you has gone missing somewhere along its delivery route. Scammers then urge you to click a link to confirm or re-enter your shipping details so they can resend the lost package.
This is where the scam really begins. The link leads to a fake USPS lookalike site that prompts you to enter personal, financial, and account login information. Armed with this data, scammers can steal your identity and make fraudulent purchases or transfer funds from your bank account.
This scam is essentially a form of phishing, which uses social engineering techniques to deceive recipients into handing over sensitive data. By posing as a package carrier, scammers take advantage of victims’ expectations of deliveries and desire to receive lost items. Let’s explore exactly how this USPS scam works from start to finish.
Step-by-Step: How Scammers Carry Out the “USPS Package Was Lost En Route” Scam
Scammers use very clever psychological tricks to successfully pull off the “USPS Package Lost En Route” scam. Here are the 5 main steps they follow:
1. Scammers send a phishing email or text impersonating USPS.
The first step is to make contact with potential victims by sending a seemingly legitimate text or email from USPS. The message appears to come from a real USPS email address or phone number, but the sender details are spoofed.
The email may even use USPS branding, logos, and messaging styles to appear authentic. This convinces recipients the message is from the postal service vs. a scammer.
2. The message claims a package intended for you was lost en route.
The phishing message states that a package you were supposed to receive got lost somewhere along its USPS delivery route. Reasons given include insufficient address details, improper packaging causing damage, or delivery to the wrong address.
Scammers write the message to create urgency, such as claiming the package contains important documents or medications that need to arrive immediately. This pressures victims into taking action quickly.
3. You are instructed to click a link to resolve the delivery problem.
The phishing email or text includes a link for you to click on to supposedly provide the correct shipping details so USPS can resend the lost package. The message stresses urgency, giving short time windows like 24-48 hours to take action before the package is returned.
In reality, the link goes to a fake USPS site run entirely by the scammers ready to steal your information. But victims don’t realize this since the link and site look legitimate at first glance.
4. The phishing site prompts you to enter personal information.
Once you click the link, you are taken to an official-looking copycat USPS site. The site asks you to re-enter and “confirm” things like your full name, shipping address, phone number, and sometimes even credit card number or social security number.
Scammers may say providing this data is required for identity verification purposes before USPS can resend your lost package. But in reality, they just steal it.
5. Scammers steal your details for identity theft and financial fraud.
Armed with your personal information, scammers can now carry out identity theft, access and drain your financial accounts, make illicit purchases with your credit card details, steal government benefits, file fake tax returns, and more.
They may also sell your data on the dark web for other cybercriminals to use in fraud schemes. Either way, you’re left seriously at risk once scammers have your information.
Don’t Become a Victim – Spot This USPS Scam Before It’s Too Late
While this USPS package delivery scam can seem convincing, there are some red flags you can watch for:
The sender’s address does not match an official USPS domain – Phishing emails will show a forged address instead of a real usps.com address.
Strange links that don’t match USPS tracking sites – Phishing links may have misspellings or unusual domains unrelated to USPS.
Spelling and grammar errors – Phishing emails often contain typos, awkward phrasing, or syntax errors.
Threats demanding immediate action – Real USPS messages won’t threaten account suspension or make unreasonable demands.
Requests for sensitive data over email/text – USPS does not request your social security number, account passwords, or financial details over digital communications.
If you receive a suspicious message, do not click any links or provide the requested personal details. Instead, report the phishing scam to USPS directly so they can attempt to shut it down.
What To Do If You Were Scammed: Steps to Take Now
If you did fall victim and shared any sensitive information, take these steps immediately to limit the damage:
1. Alert your bank and credit card companies.
If you revealed financial data, call your credit card issuer and banks to report what happened. Cancel any compromised cards right away and dispute unauthorized transactions with fraud departments. Temporarily lower debit/credit limits to reduce future risk.
2. Watch all statements closely for signs of misuse.
Carefully monitor bank, credit, and all other account statements for fraudulent charges, transfers, and withdrawals. Unusual activity like small charges from new vendors can be signs of stolen payment data. Report any crimes immediately.
3. Reset all account passwords compromised by the scam.
Change login credentials on any apps, sites, or accounts that you entered into the phishing site. Use unique, complex passwords for each account going forward. Enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security on high-risk accounts.
4. Place fraud alerts and check your credit reports.
Contact one major credit bureau to place an initial 90-day fraud alert on your credit file. The alert requires lenders to verify your identity before opening new credit lines, making it harder for scammers to use your data. Also order your free annual credit reports to check for accounts opened without authorization. Monitor reports regularly for signs of additional identity theft.
5. Freeze your credit if identity theft occurred.
If scammers already misused your personal information for financial gain, consider placing a credit freeze at all three bureaus. This restricts access to your credit file, stopping thieves from opening new lines of credit. But it also prevents you from applying for credit unless temporarily lifted. Alternatively, request a free one-year fraud alert extension.
6. File an FTC and IC3 complaint.
Report the phishing scam to the Federal Trade Commission and Internet Crime Complaint Center. Provide details on how the scam occurred, losses incurred, and information on the scammers if known. Officials can then investigate, use the data to stop future related scams, and prosecute offenders where possible.
How To Avoid Falling Victim to This and Other Delivery Scams
Use caution to protect yourself from this and other common delivery or package-tracking scams in the future:
Never click direct links in unsolicited texts, emails, or robocalls regarding deliveries. Manually look up tracking through official carrier apps/sites instead.
Avoid giving sensitive personal, financial, or account information over the phone, email, text, or online forms unless you directly contacted the company and are certain the request is legitimate.
Always double check senders’ contact information before trusting delivery notifications. Confirm it matches official domains/phone numbers of the company claimed.
Watch for phishing red flags like typos/grammatical errors, threats demanding immediate action, or requests for sensitive data from companies. No legitimate organizations will threaten you in messages or demand immediate payment/personal details to avoid account suspension.
Never trust requests to “confirm” or “re-enter” personal or payment data due to delivery issues. Legitimate carriers already have your details on file if you placed an order.
Set up account alerts for payment cards and bank accounts to monitor transactions in real time. Report anything suspicious to institutions immediately so they can freeze affected accounts.
Stay vigilant for phone, email, and text delivery scams by validating senders, watching for red flags, and keeping personal details protected. Consult carriers directly through official channels if you need to inquire about lost or delayed packages.
Frequently Asked Questions About the USPS Package Lost Scam
What is the USPS “package lost” scam?
This is a phishing scam where scammers send fake text messages or emails impersonating the USPS. The messages claim a package intended for you was lost en route and ask you to click a link to update your shipping details so they can resend it. But the link leads to a fake website that steals your personal information.
How do I recognize this USPS scam?
Watch for texts/emails about lost packages that seem urgent and ask you to click a link to resolve the issue. The sender address should match an official USPS domain – if not, it’s a scam. Odd links, grammar errors, threats about suspended accounts, or requests for sensitive info are also red flags.
What happens if I click the link in the scam message?
You will be taken to a fake website masquerading as a USPS site. It will ask you to enter personal details like your name, address, phone number, credit card info, etc. to resend your “lost” package. In reality, scammers will just steal your details for identity theft and financial fraud.
What should I do if I shared information through the phishing site?
If you entered any sensitive details, contact banks/credit cards immediately to close compromised accounts and dispute fraudulent transactions. Also change passwords, check credit reports, place fraud alerts, file complaints with the FTC and IC3, and monitor your statements closely for signs of additional misuse of your information.
How can I safely track a USPS package?
Go directly to usps.com or use the official USPS app to track packages instead of clicking links in emails/texts claiming to be from USPS. Legitimate tracking links should show usps.com in the URL. USPS also does not send tracking texts/emails containing links unless you specifically sign up for them.
How do I report this USPS phishing scam?
Forward scam emails to spam@uce.gov and report the phishing scam to USPS online or by calling 1-877-876-2455. You can also file complaints about scam texts at ftc.gov and fraudulent sites at ic3.gov to help authorities combat these USPS phishing tactics.
How can I avoid delivery scams in the future?
Never click direct links about packages from unknown sources. Verify sender addresses are real. Check for phishing red flags in messages. Avoid entering personal/financial details online unless you initiated contact. Use multi-factor authentication on accounts. Monitor statements and set up transaction alerts.
Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan
Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free — one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.
The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:
Adware — the cause of those annoying pop-ups
Browser hijackers — unwanted redirects and changed homepages
Trojans and spyware — hidden programs stealing your data
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) — software you never asked for
👉 Select your device below — Windows, Mac, or Android — then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows — and it’s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows from the official source. The free version is all you need — it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.
(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)
Install Malwarebytes
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the MBSetup file. If Windows shows a User Account Control pop-up, click “Yes” to allow the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:
Choose where you’re installing the program — “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” — then click Next.
Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.
When installation is complete, the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen will open automatically.
On the final screen, click Open Malwarebytes to launch the program.
Enable “Scan for Rootkits”
Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the Settings gear icon on the left side of the screen.
In the settings menu, find “Scan for rootkits” and click the toggle so it turns blue.
Done? Click “Dashboard” in the left pane to return to the main screen.
Start the Scan
Click the blue Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found — malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all of them at once.
Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.
Restart Your Computer
Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click Yes. Once you’re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.
When the scan finishes, click Quarantine to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That’s it — your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.
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 a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss — adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it’s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Mac.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The Malwarebytes for Mac Installer will guide you through a few quick screens. Click “Continue” and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.
When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click “Get started“.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”
Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you’re installing it on. Click either Personal Computer or Work Computer, whichever applies.
Start the Scan
Click the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the threats at once.
Restart Your Mac
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot — if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you’re logged back in, your Mac is clean.
Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser 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.
After the scan, tap Remove Selected to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean — no more malicious apps, adware, or 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.
Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button — so blocking them at the source is your best defense.
We recommend AdGuard, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.
Don’t Let Scammers Steal Your Personal Information
Fake delivery scams impersonating USPS and other carriers continue surging as more commerce shifts online. Whether over text, email, or phone, their goal is always the same – gather enough of your personal data to commit identity theft and financial fraud. But staying aware of common phishing tactics like urgent demands, threats, and requests to confirm sensitive information can keep you from compromising your data and falling victim when scammers impersonate postal services and delivery companies.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
About Thomas Orsolya
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.
