Australia Post Delivery Scam Texts: What to Look For

Fake Australia Post text messages have become one of the most widespread scams in Australia. These messages claim you have a parcel waiting, a delivery that needs rescheduling, or customs fees to pay.

How Delivery Scam Texts Work

You receive a text message that appears to be from Australia Post. The message typically says:

• "Your parcel could not be delivered. Reschedule here: [link]"
• "Your package is being held due to unpaid customs fees of $X"
• "Track your delivery: [link]"
• "Final attempt: your parcel will be returned if not collected today"

The link leads to a fake website that either steals your personal information or installs malware.

Red Flags in Fake Delivery Texts

• Random tracking links: Real Australia Post links use auspost.com.au
• Urgency: "Parcel will be returned within 24 hours"
• Payment requests: Asking for credit card details to pay "fees"
• Short URLs: bit.ly, tinyurl.com, or unfamiliar domains
• Generic messages: No specific parcel details or sender information

How Real Australia Post Communicates

Australia Post legitimately contacts you through:

1. The AusPost app — push notifications with tracking details
2. Email — from auspost.com.au with specific tracking numbers
3. Delivery cards — physical cards left in your mailbox
4. SMS — only if you opted in, from "AusPost" with real tracking numbers

What to Do If You Receive a Fake Delivery Text

1. Don't click the link — delete the message
2. Report the scam SMS — forward it to 0429 401 703 (Australia Post scam reporting)
3. Report to Scamwatch — Visit scamwatch.gov.au or call 1300 795 995
4. Check Ask Arthur — Paste the text into askarthur.au for AI-powered scam analysis

Protecting Yourself

• Install the official AusPost app for legitimate delivery notifications
• Always type web addresses directly into your browser
• Be sceptical of any text asking you to click a link or make a payment
• Keep your phone's operating system and apps updated