Use AI to spot a fake delivery text
Holiday shopping means lots of real packages, and lots of fake "delivery problem" texts. AI can help you look at a text calmly before you tap a link.
This time of year many of us are waiting on packages, and scammers know it. A text says your package is on hold, the address is wrong, or there's a small fee to pay. It has a link and a deadline. The goal is to get you to tap fast and type in your card or personal details. An AI chat can help you slow down and look at the message with a second pair of eyes.
Don't tap. Copy the words instead
Don't tap the link or reply. Copy the words of the text and paste them into the chat. Copying the link as text is fine, as long as you never open it. Leave out your name and address.
Example: "I got this text about a package: [PASTE THE TEXT]. I am expecting a few orders but I didn't sign up for texts from this company. What signs of a scam do you see? What's the safe way to check on my packages instead?"
Check your packages the safe way
If you're expecting something, go to the store or shipper's website or app yourself, the way you normally would, and look up your order there. A real problem will show up in your account. Never use a link from a surprise text to "fix" a delivery.
Report it and delete it
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service says to forward scam texts to 7726, which helps report the number. You can also report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Then delete the text. If you already tapped and typed in card details, call your bank right away.
Things to know
- AI can point out warning signs, but it can't promise a message is safe. When in doubt, check through the company's own website.
- Signs to watch for: a deadline, a small fee, a strange web address, spelling mistakes, or a text you never signed up for.
- Shopping deals this season? See our guide to shopping Black Friday safely. Got a different odd message? See our guide to checking a scam message.
Also read: How to use AI to check if a message is a scam
Also read: Use AI to shop Black Friday and Cyber Monday safely
Questions
Is it safe to paste a scam text into AI?
Yes, as long as you don't tap the link and you leave out your own name, address, and card numbers. Pasting the words is fine.
Where do I report a fake delivery text?
Forward it to 7726 and report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, as the U.S. Postal Inspection Service suggests. Then delete it.
What if I already tapped the link?
Don't type anything in. If you already entered card or bank details, call your bank or card company right away using the number on your card.
Can AI tell me for sure if it's real?
No. It can spot warning signs. The safest check is to look up your order on the store's or shipper's own website or app.
Is this free?
Yes. The free version of ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude can do everything here, and our coach gives you 3 free prompts a day with no account needed.