How to Avoid Delivery Scams During the Holidays
Quick Summary
Holiday delivery scams spike every year. Fake “package delayed” messages and phony tracking links trick thousands of people. Here’s how to avoid them and stay safe.
Imagine This Scenario
You open your phone and see:
“Your package is delayed — click here to reschedule.”
Hmm…
You DID order something, didn’t you?
Or… did you?
You stare at the phone like it’s trying to trick you.
Let’s break the scam before it breaks your holiday mood.
1. Never Click Tracking Links in Text Messages
Summary: Real delivery companies rarely text.
Fake texts say things like:
“Action required”
“Delivery failed”
“Click to update address”
Instead, check your deliveries through the official app or website.
“Need a hand? Your friends at FriendlyHelp are just a click away—book your appointment today!
2. Watch for Fake Emails From Carriers
Summary: Scammers use fancy logos — but sloppy spelling.
Red flags include:
❌ Misspellings
❌ Random numbers
❌ Strange email addresses
❌ Demands for payment
No real delivery service asks for money through email.
“Need a hand? Your friends at FriendlyHelp are just a click away—book your appointment today!
3. Check Your Real Orders First
Summary: If you didn’t order anything, ignore the message.
Scammers hope you panic before thinking.
Always ask:
“Do I actually have a package coming?”
4. Use Only Official Tracking Websites
Summary: Amazon, UPS, USPS, DHL, and FedEx apps are safest.
Enter your tracking number manually — don’t trust clickable links.
5. Don’t Pay Surprise Redelivery Fees
Summary: Delivery companies do NOT charge these fees.
If the message demands money → delete it.
FAQ: Delivery Scams
Q1: What if I clicked the link?
Close it immediately. Do NOT enter information.
Q2: Why do scammers target holidays?
People shop more — scams blend in easily.
Q3: Are ALL delivery texts fake?
Most are. Carriers prefer their official apps.
The 5 Golden Rules of Safe Deliveries
Never click texted links.
Check real orders first.
Use official tracking tools.
Don’t pay extra fees.
When unsure, delete and verify.
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Delivery scams work by blending into busy moments—not by being convincing.
When packages are coming and notifications are flying, it’s easy to second-guess yourself. Taking a pause, checking your real orders, and using official apps shuts these scams down quickly. And if a message ever makes you uneasy or you’re not sure what’s real, FriendlyHelp is here to help you verify it safely—so your holidays stay focused on gifts, not headaches.
