A text from “FedEx” says your parcel is on hold and you need to pay a small fee. Maybe you are waiting for a delivery, so it’s hard to ignore.
Text message:
FedEx: Your parcel is on hold due to unpaid delivery charges. Pay $1.99 to schedule redelivery: fedex-parcel-fee.example
FedEx: Your parcel is on hold due to unpaid delivery charges. Pay $1.99 to schedule redelivery: fedex-parcel-fee.example
An invented example, but real scam messages look just like it.
Short answer: Most texts like this are scams. FedEx says it never asks for payment or personal information in exchange for releasing a package.
ScamRead Scam Checker
Got this message right now? Paste it into ScamRead.
Copy the message, paste it into the checker, and get a clear read on the red flags in seconds. Free.
Red flags in a message like this
- A small “redelivery” or “customs” fee payable through a link
- A web address that’s slightly off, like “fedx” or “fed-ex”, or an odd ending such as .shop
- A parcel you aren’t expecting
- Spelling errors, ALL CAPS or lots of exclamation marks
- Pressure to pay today
What FedEx and the FCC say
- FedEx: “We never request payment or personal information in exchange for releasing a package.”
- For some international shipments FedEx may send a secure link to pay duties and taxes. If you’re expecting an import, go to fedex.com yourself and enter your tracking number.
- The FCC’s advice for any delivery text, including UPS: don’t click the link or call the number. Contact the carrier using a website or number you already trust.
If you already tapped, replied or paid
- Typed card details: call your card issuer and block the card.
- Typed a login or password: change it and turn on two-step login.
- Lost money: contact your bank first, then report at ic3.gov.
Report it: Forward suspicious messages to abuse@fedex.com and 7726 (SPAM), and report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Still not sure? Paste it into ScamRead before you reply or pay.