Fake Delivery Scams
We’ve all been there—waiting on a package, checking tracking updates, and feeling a little thrill when your phone buzzes with a new message. But not all delivery notifications are what they seem. Fake delivery text scams are a huge issue right now. These scams usually start with a message that appears to come from a well-known delivery company like UPS, FedEx, DHL, or USPS. The text often claims there's a problem with a delivery—maybe a package couldn’t be dropped off, or additional information is needed to complete the shipment. Sometimes, it will say you owe a small "customs" or "redelivery" fee. There’s a catch, though. They’ll also include a link and ask you to click on it to provide more information.
Don’t Click on Strange Links
If you click on the link (remember: don’t) it usually leads to a fake website that looks almost identical to the real delivery company’s site. Once there, you're prompted to enter personal information—like your name, address, credit card number, or even your Apple ID. In some cases, the site may try to install malware or spyware on your device.
These scams are particularly effective because they look real and many people are actually waiting for packages on many days.
How to Protect Your Device
Take the following steps to protect your device from phishing scams:
Filter Unknown Senders
Go to Settings > Messages > Filter Unknown Senders. This will separate messages from people not in your contacts, making it easier to spot anything fishy.
Don’t Click or Reply
If you get a strange message—even if it looks legit—don’t click the link or reply. Instead, contact the company directly through their official website or app to check if the message is real.
Report and Block
You can report iMessage spam by tapping “Report Junk” under the message. Also, block the sender so they can’t contact you again.
Keep iOS Updated
Apple regularly updates its software to patch security holes. Head to Settings > General > Software Update and make sure your phone is running the latest version.
Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Enable 2FA for your Apple ID and other accounts. This adds an extra layer of protection in case your login info ever does get compromised.