Beware USPS Scams: Common Tactics, How to Spot Them, and What to Do
Have you ever received an email saying you have a USPS package waiting, but you don't remember ordering anything? Or a text message asking you to pay shipping fees? These situations are concerning and may mean someone is trying to scam you.
This guide explains how these scams work, how to identify them, and what to do if you think you've become a target.
What Are USPS Scams?
Scammers can carry out fraud in multiple ways, including:
Delivery Notification Cards: Fake "USPS" cards may be slipped through your mail slot, claiming you have a package at the post office that needs redelivery and that you must pay an outstanding fee to retrieve it.
Text Messages: Scammers may send texts or WhatsApp messages suggesting you need to click a link to pay shipping so your package can be delivered.
Emails: These scam emails often mimic USPS branding and communication style. The email may claim your package could not be delivered and ask you to click a link to reschedule delivery, or demand payment to release your package.
Websites: Some scammers use fake USPS websites to trick people into entering personal or sensitive information, which they then steal.
As technology evolves, scams targeting USPS users are on the rise. According to a 2025 survey by TransUnion, about 70% of U.S. consumers have encountered fake messages impersonating trusted companies, with USPS ranked as the most frequently impersonated brand.
Understanding how to identify package delivery scams is critical. This guide walks you through the most common USPS scam tactics, how to report them, and what steps to take if you are scammed — so you know who to turn to and what actions to take.
What Are the U.S. Laws Against USPS Impersonation Scams?
Under U.S. federal law, impersonating the United States Postal Service is a serious crime. Anyone who impersonates USPS personnel to deceive others can be charged under 18 U.S.C. § 1341 (mail fraud) and 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (wire fraud).
If malicious software is involved, certain scams may also violate the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA). If personal data is obtained without authorization, violations of data protection laws may also apply.
Penalties may include imprisonment, fines, and asset forfeiture. Even with strong laws, recovering losses can be challenging, which is why many victims seek help from professional fraud recovery teams. Legal support can make the process clearer and easier to navigate.
How to Identify USPS Scams
Knowing what to watch for can help you stay ahead of scammers.
Common Signs of USPS Scams
Scammers often make their messages look legitimate, closely mimicking official USPS communications.
However, even scammers make mistakes — and it is these errors we need to spot to distinguish scam messages from genuine ones.
Language: Messages like "Your package will be canceled" or urging you to pay shipping immediately are designed to make you panic and provide information quickly. You should also watch for grammar and spelling errors, especially when the tone doesn't match USPS expectations (e.g., too casual or aggressive).
Branding Mismatches: Look out for logos, colors, or layouts that don't match official USPS branding. Scammers may also use unprofessional or poorly designed formatting.
Suspicious Sender Address: If you receive an email claiming to be from "USPS," check the sender address carefully. Even small variations like " [email protected] " can be a telltale sign of a scam email.
Fake Payment Links: Scammers often direct you to third-party websites to pay package delivery fees, where they steal your personal information. Avoid clicking suspicious links.
QR Codes: Similarly, if you receive a physical USPS scam card, it may contain a QR code directing you to a fake website where you are asked to enter your card details.
Websites: Some sites mimic the USPS stamp and collectibles store, offering 20% to 60% discounts on stamps. Some charge fees and send fake stamps, while others steal your personal information without sending anything at all.
For more specific examples, the USPS scam alert page is very useful, as it is frequently updated with information about new and common scam tactics.
What USPS Will Never Do
The United States Postal Service will NEVER:
Notify you via text or email to pay a redelivery fee
Ask for your bank account information, passwords, or personal details through a link
Send messages with urgent warnings or threats to pressure you into releasing or delivering a package
Ask you to download attachments or files to "confirm" or "release" a delivery
Direct you to suspicious or unofficial websites
If you receive any "USPS" communication containing any of the above, it is likely a targeted scam and you should report it immediately.
