Package delivery scams: how they work and how to spot them

Updated October 2026 · 4 minute read

A text says a package couldn't be delivered and you need to pay a small fee or update your address. The link steals your card details.

How the scam works

Like almost every scam, this one follows a three step script:

The hook. Something believable lands in front of you: a message, a call, an ad or a new "friend".
The pressure. Urgency, fear, excitement or secrecy, so you act before you think or talk to anyone.
The payment. A method that can't be reversed: gift cards, crypto, a Bitcoin ATM, or an e-Transfer to a stranger.

Spot any one of those three steps and you can stop the whole thing.

You weren't expecting a package
Tiny fee like $1.99 or $3.00
Link isn't the courier's real website
Pressure to keep it secret or to act right now.
Any request for gift cards, crypto, a Bitcoin ATM or an e-Transfer to a person's name.

Delete it. Track packages only through the retailer or courier's official app. If you entered card details, call your bank now.

Call your bank or card issuer right away and ask them to stop or reverse the payment.
Change any password you entered, and turn on two step verification.
Report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501) in Canada, or reportfraud.ftc.gov in the US.
File a police report and keep every message, receipt and screenshot.
Watch out for "recovery" offers. Anyone promising to get your money back for a fee is running a second scam.

Bank fraud department call: Caller claims to be your bank's fraud team and asks you to move money to a 'safe account'.
Arrest warrant call: Fake police say you'll be arrested unless you pay a fine right now.
Immigration threat: Caller says your immigration status has a problem and demands payment.
Utility disconnection: Fake hydro or gas company threatens to cut power within the hour.
SIN suspended call: Robocall says your SIN is frozen due to criminal activity.
Amazon or Apple charge call: 'Did you authorize a $999 iPhone purchase?' leading to remote access or payment.

Monthly scam alerts and printable family checklists. Just $1 a month.