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7 Shocking Red Flags: Does USPS Text You About US Customs? (The Definitive 2025 Guide)

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As of December 19, 2025, the answer is an unequivocal and urgent NO: The United States Postal Service (USPS) will not send you an unsolicited text message regarding a package being held by U.S. Customs, nor will they ever ask you to pay a customs fee, duty, or tax via a text link. This message, which typically claims your parcel is "stuck in customs" and requires a small payment to be released, is one of the most widespread and dangerous forms of "smishing" (SMS phishing) currently circulating. This sophisticated scam is designed to steal your credit card information, bank details, and other sensitive personal information, making it crucial to understand the official USPS policies and the critical red flags.

The rise of international e-commerce has made these fake "US Customs" text messages an incredibly effective tool for cybercriminals. They prey on the anxiety of expecting a package, especially one from overseas, and the fear of it being confiscated or delayed. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) has issued repeated warnings about these deceptive texts, advising customers never to click on the link or provide any personal data.

The Definitive Answer: Does USPS Text You About US Customs?

The short, official, and most important piece of information you need to know is that USPS does not send unsolicited text messages to customers. The messages you are receiving that claim your package is being held by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are fraudulent.

Here is a breakdown of the official communication protocols for international packages and customs issues:

  • No Unsolicited Texts: USPS does not initiate contact with customers via text message unless you have specifically signed up for text-based tracking alerts for a specific package using a tracking number. Even in that case, the text will NOT contain a link for payment or verification.
  • Customs Fees are Paid Differently: If an international package is assessed for duties, taxes, or tariffs by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the payment is handled in one of two official ways:
    • At Delivery: The most common method is that the delivery employee (your mail carrier) will collect the required customs charges at the time of delivery, often requiring a signature and payment.
    • Official Notification by Mail: In complex cases, or if additional documentation is required, USPS will contact you by physical mail. They will send an official letter or postcard, not a text or email, directing you to the proper procedure for resolving the customs hold.
  • Red Flags for Government Agencies: Government agencies like USPS and U.S. Customs typically only reach out by official mail. Any text, email, or unexpected phone call claiming to be from these entities and asking for immediate payment or personal information is a massive red flag.

5 Red Flags That Prove the "Customs Fee" Text is a Scam (Smishing)

Scammers use sophisticated tactics, but their messages always contain tell-tale signs of fraud. Recognizing these signs is your first line of defense against identity theft and financial loss. These are the most common elements of the USPS customs "smishing" scam:

1. The Presence of a Link for Payment or Verification

This is the single biggest giveaway. Every fake USPS customs text includes a malicious link, often shortened (like a bit.ly or similar service) or disguised to look legitimate. The text will urge you to click this link to "pay a small customs fee," "update your address," or "verify your identity" to release your package. Official USPS text notifications will never contain a link. Clicking the link leads to a fake website designed to harvest your financial data or install malware.

2. Vague or Missing Tracking Information

The scam text often uses generic language like "Your parcel is being held by customs" or "A delivery issue occurred with your package." While they sometimes include a fake tracking number, a quick check on the official USPS tracking website will show the number is either invalid or does not match your expected deliveries. If you have a legitimate international package, you should already have a valid tracking number that you can check directly.

3. The Request for a Small, Urgent Fee

The scammers often ask for a very small amount—typically between $0.99 and $3.00—to make the request seem trivial and non-threatening. They hope the small fee will make you lower your guard and enter your credit card information quickly. Once they have your card details, the real damage begins, as they can then use that information for much larger fraudulent transactions.

4. The Threat of a Time Limit or Penalty

Scams rely on creating a sense of urgency to prevent you from thinking clearly or verifying the information. The text will often include a dramatic warning, such as: "You have 12 hours to update your address or the package will be returned" or "Failure to pay the customs fee will result in the package being destroyed." This high-pressure tactic is a classic sign of a phishing attempt.

5. Grammar Errors, Spelling Mistakes, or Unofficial Sender Numbers

While some scams are very well-written, many contain subtle grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, or unusual capitalization that a major government agency would never use. Furthermore, the text often comes from a random 10-digit phone number, not an official shortcode or sender ID used by a large corporation. This lack of professionalism is a clear indication of a fraudulent message.

What to Do Immediately If You Receive a Fake USPS Customs Text

If you receive a text message claiming to be from USPS about a customs fee or delivery issue, your immediate action is critical to protecting yourself and helping law enforcement combat these criminal operations. Do not panic—your package is likely fine, and your financial data is still secure, provided you follow these steps:

1. Do Not Click the Link or Reply

The most important step is to resist the urge to click the link, even if you are curious. Clicking the link may automatically download malware or take you to a fraudulent site designed to steal your credentials. Do not reply to the text, as this only confirms to the scammer that your phone number is active.

2. Forward the Text Message to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS)

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is the federal law enforcement arm of the USPS. They actively track and investigate these smishing and phishing scams. You should forward the suspicious text message to the official USPIS reporting number:

  • Forward the text message to: 7726 (SPAM)

This action helps your mobile carrier and the USPIS identify and block similar malicious messages in the future.

3. Report the Scam Online

After forwarding the text, you should file an official report with the USPIS to provide them with all the details, including the sender's phone number, the date, and the content of the message. You can do this easily online:

  • Visit the USPIS official website: Report suspected fraud directly through their online portal.
  • Select "Scam Emails/Texts" as the type of crime you are reporting.

4. Check Your Package Status Officially

If you genuinely suspect you have a package held up, do not use any information from the text message. Instead, go directly to the official USPS website (usps.com), enter your tracking number (if you have one) into the official tracking tool, or contact the USPS customer service line directly. This ensures you are dealing only with verified, official sources.

Protecting Yourself from Future Smishing Attempts

The "USPS customs fee" scam is just one variant of a broader smishing attack. To maintain topical authority and long-term security, it is essential to adopt these habits:

  • Be Skeptical of All Unexpected Texts: Treat any text message claiming to be from a bank, government agency, or shipping carrier with immediate suspicion.
  • Use Official Apps: If you are expecting a package, use the official USPS Mobile App or the official website to track it. Never follow a link sent to you in an unsolicited text.
  • Monitor Your Accounts: If you accidentally clicked a link or entered any information, immediately contact your bank or credit card company to report potential fraud and monitor your credit reports for suspicious activity.
  • Educate Others: Share this information with friends and family, especially those who may not be familiar with these sophisticated cyber threats.

In summary, while packages from overseas may occasionally encounter legitimate customs issues, the USPS will not notify you via an unsolicited text message asking for payment or personal information. Stay safe by recognizing the red flags and reporting these scams immediately to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

7 Shocking Red Flags: Does USPS Text You About US Customs? (The Definitive 2025 Guide)
does usps text you about us customs
does usps text you about us customs

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