Delivery and Refund Messages: Verify Without the Link
Unexpected delivery fees and refund messages can be phishing. Open the retailer or carrier’s official app yourself to check whether there is a real issue.
By ZoraSafe · Content reviewed · Originally published
Why the message can feel plausible
A message may mention a missed delivery, failed payment or refund to create a reason to sign in. Branding and a tracking-style number are not proof of authenticity.
Sources: FTC: How to recognize and avoid phishing scams
Related guidance: An Unexpected Package Message: Check the Original Order
Check the order independently
- Review orders in the retailer’s app or account you normally use.
- Use a known carrier website and a tracking number from your original order record.
- Do not pay an unexpected fee or provide account codes through the message.
- Contact verified support if the official record is unclear.
If you clicked or paid
Write down whether you entered information, installed something or sent money. Follow the corresponding recovery steps, and be wary of another message promising to recover your payment for a fee.
Sources: FTC: What to do if you were scammed; FTC: Refund and recovery scams
Related guidance: What to Do After Responding to a Scam
Sources and product references
Reviewed 2026-10-07. Source dates and scope matter; a linked source supports the associated guidance, not every claim about every product.