Southland News

You've ordered a few holiday gifts online, and now you're waiting for them to arrive. Then you get a text saying there's a problem with your delivery.

“Delivery failed. Your shipping address is incomplete. Update your information to avoid your package being returned.”

There's even a link to fix it. Seems helpful, right? But before you click, that text might not be what it seems.

During the holidays, scammers send fake delivery texts hoping you'll share your personal or banking information. And here's something you might not know: they don't even need to know you've ordered a package.

How does this scam work?

Scammers send fake delivery messages to large numbers of people, knowing some are bound to be waiting for a package. It's a guessing game, and the busy holiday shopping season makes it easier for them to catch someone off guard.

These texts often look like they're from USPS, UPS or FedEx. They might claim your address is wrong, your package is delayed or you need to pay a small fee before it can be delivered.

The message includes a link to a website designed to look like the real delivery company's site. But if you enter your card number, password or other personal information, it could go straight to a scammer.

How can you spot a fake delivery text?

These messages can look convincing, but there are a few warning signs to watch for:

• You're being rushed. The message says you need to act right away or risk losing your package.

• You're asked to pay or share information. It might request a small delivery fee, your card number or personal details.

• Something looks off with the link. The website address looks unusual or doesn't match the delivery company's official site.

Here's another thing to keep in mind: scammers can copy company logos and even make messages appear to come from familiar senders. Just because a text looks real doesn't mean it is.

Got a delivery text? Here's what to do.

If you receive an unexpected delivery text, skip the link and check your order another way. Open the store's website or the delivery company's official app. You can also find the tracking number in your original order confirmation email.

This is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself: instead of trusting the message, check the delivery through a source you know is real.

If you've already shared your card or banking information, contact your financial institution right away. If you entered a password, change it through the official website or app.

You can also forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM) or report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

We're here to help

When you're expecting a package, a delivery text might seem perfectly normal. That's exactly what scammers are counting on. Taking a moment to check your order through a trusted website or app can help you avoid giving your information to the wrong person.

If you think you've shared your banking or card information with a scammer, contact Southland right away. We're here to help you figure out what to do next and take steps to protect your accounts.