Missing Package Scam
During the holidays, package and delivery service scams surge in popularity. Package related scams tend to fall into two primary categories: package theft and fake missing package notifications.
Delivery notification scam calls and messages tend to look like they are coming from a legitimate mail courier, such as the U.S. Postal Service, FedEx, and UPS. When these come in message form, they typically include fake tracking links as well. Never click a link or call back a number from an unexpected delivery notice. Contact the company directly using a verified phone number, email, or website. If you would like to learn more about courier scams, you can visit our article on the topic!
Stolen packages also become very common around holiday time with an influx of online orders being placed. According to the Office of Inspector General, at least 58 million packages have been stolen in the United States in 2024, costing on average between $50-$204 in value per package. Always be wary of stolen packages! While it is inconvenient to lose out on an item you have ordered, it can also be a potential sign of identity theft. A few steps that can reduce the risk of having your orders stolen include:
Making your deliveries require a signature before they are left
Installing security cameras to monitor drop-off locations
Setting up your delivery window to when you know you will be at home
If you fall victim to a stolen package scam, it is best to report this theft to the merchant and, if necessary, to your credit card company or bank. In some cases, you may be required to file a police report to receive a replacement on your stolen product.