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"YOUR FEDEX DELIVERY FAILED" SCAM

FAKE EMAILS TRYING TO STEAL FROM YOU

"Your delivery has failed....."

"Do you still want your package...?"

One of the latest email scams going around today.  You get an email that starts, "Your FedEx delivery has failed....:  Or, "Your package cannot be delivered...."  I received one today that read:  "Your package has made it to the post office but an incomplete address won't allow delivery....."

Millions of these fake emails are being sent out to lure victims into calling or clicking an internet link about their failed "delivery."  These fake emails are not from FedEx, UPS or the USPS-- or other legitimate companies.  Most of them originate overseas from scammers who just need to make contact with you.  Then, they go after your money.

The scam usually plays out like this, although there are many variations:

1.  You contact the scammer and are given an email address to contact about your fake "package."  You go to the email address or call the fake number.

2.  You are redirected to a "survey" to complete.  At the end of the survey you are told that you qualify for a free gift and are asked to enter your credit card number.  (Ever wonder why they need your credit card number to send you a "free" gift?).  

3.  Sometimes you are asked to pay a fee if you want to continue with your [fake] delivery. You provide your debit or credit card number and your account is then cleaned out by the scammer. Of course, there is no delivery!

What Should You Do If You Get a Notice About a Failed Delivery?

Ignore it.  Don't click on any links, go to any email sites or call any telephone numbers.  Do not provide any personal information such as date of birth, address, zip code or Social Security number.  Don't pay any fees or give out any credit or debit card numbers--ever. These scammers want only one thing:  to separate you from your money.

 Even clicking on these fake email addresses or links can put you at risk.  You may get a virus installed on your computer that tracks you or collects personal information such as passwords, account numbers, etc.  Don't respond to these phony communications in any way.

If you have actually ordered something and are waiting on a delivery, check with the company that shipped your order, using a number you know is real. Never respond to these phony emails.   FedEx and other legitimate companies never send you an email asking for personal information or a payment to complete the delivery.  These are always, always fake scams designed to steal from you.  Be smart. Protect yourself.

Also, beware of offers of free merchandise or trial purchases which just need a payment to pay for shipping.  Nobody gives away things.   When contacted by a company you don't know about something you didn't order--just think:  Should I be responding to this email or phone call?

From time to time, we like to pass on warnings, especially to seniors, who are targeted by these scams.  I think the scams are more numerous during the holiday season when supposedly more items are being ordered and delivered.  But they can and do occur all year. 

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