High riskDelivery & Postal Scams

Fake Customs Fee Text

This scam texts that a parcel is held in customs and a fee is due, linking to a fake page that collects your card and personal details.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
Customs impersonation scam
Main red flag
A text saying a parcel is stuck in customs and a fee must be paid through a link.
What to do first
Do not pay through the link. Verify any charge with the courier or retailer directly.

What this scam usually looks like

This scam texts that a parcel is held in customs and a fee is due, linking to a fake page that collects your card and personal details.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'Your parcel is held at customs. A fee of $2.99 is required for release. Pay here to avoid return: [suspicious link]'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A customs fee text for a parcel you may not be expecting
  • A small fee with a threat the parcel will be returned
  • A link that is not the courier's or postal service's official site
  • A request for card and personal details to release the parcel
  • Urgent deadlines to pay quickly

What to do

  • Do not click the link or pay the fee
  • Check any genuine customs charge with the courier or retailer directly
  • Report the text to your mobile provider's spam service
  • Delete the message and block the sender

If you already clicked or replied

  • Do not submit any details on the page
  • Contact your bank if you entered card information
  • Change passwords for any reused logins
  • Monitor your statements for unexpected charges

What not to do

  • Do not pay customs fees through a text link
  • Do not share card or personal details
  • Do not reply to the message

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Frequently asked questions

Are customs fees ever real?
Genuine import charges can exist, but they are confirmed through the courier or postal service, not a random text link demanding a small fee.
How do I check a real customs charge?
Contact the courier or retailer using their official website, and use the real tracking number to confirm the parcel and any fees.
Why is the fee so small?
A small, believable amount lowers your guard, while the real aim is to capture your card and personal details on the fake page.
What if I already paid?
Contact your bank immediately to flag the card and watch for further unauthorised charges.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.