Amazon and Package Delivery Scams: How to Spot Them
Quick Answer
Amazon's scale makes it a prime impersonation target. With hundreds of millions of active customers, a scam message claiming to be from Amazon has a high probability of reaching actual Amazon users. Package delivery scams using FedEx, UPS, and USPS branding follow the same playbook.
Common Amazon Scam Types
Fake order confirmation. You receive an email or text about an order you did not place, often for an expensive item. The message includes a number to call "if this was not you." Calling connects you to scammers who ask for your Amazon login to "cancel the order," then use your credentials to access your real account.
Account suspension notice. An email claims your Amazon account has been suspended due to suspicious activity and you must verify your information immediately. The link leads to a fake Amazon login page.
Fake refund. You are contacted about a refund for a previous purchase. To process it, you need to provide your bank account information for the direct deposit. The refund does not exist, the goal is your banking details.
Smishing (text message scams). A text claims your package could not be delivered and asks you to click a link to reschedule. The link installs malware or leads to a credential-stealing site.
Fake Amazon customer service. A search for "Amazon customer service" returns paid ads leading to fake numbers. Calling connects you to scammers who ask for account access.
Package Delivery Scams (USPS, FedEx, UPS)
The same structure applies to delivery carrier impersonation:
- A text from "USPS" says your package is held due to an insufficient address and provides a link to update delivery preferences
- A "FedEx" email says your package is pending and requires a small fee to release it
- A "UPS" notification claims customs clearance requires payment
USPS does not charge fees via text message links. Real carrier notifications come through tracking numbers you entered yourself, not unsolicited messages.
How to Verify a Real Amazon Message
- Log into your Amazon account directly at amazon.com (do not use links from messages) and check your orders and notifications
- Real Amazon emails come from @amazon.com domains only
- Amazon will never ask for your password, full payment card number, or gift card codes via unsolicited contact
- Check the "Messages" centre in your Amazon account, all legitimate communications appear there
What to Do
Do not click links in unsolicited delivery or order messages. Go directly to the carrier or retailer's official website by typing the address yourself.
Report Amazon scams:
- Forward suspicious emails to
[email protected] - Report phishing texts to 7726 (SPAM)
- FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov, 1-877-382-4357
- USPS mail fraud: USPIS.gov, 1-877-876-2455