ScamSplain

Order-Tracking Page Credential Phish

A 'track your order' link opens a fake retailer or carrier login that harvests your account credentials.

Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.

What this scam is

You get a shipping or order-tracking notice with a 'track your package' or 'view order' button. The link leads to a convincing but fake retailer or carrier login page that captures your username and password. Because tracking a package feels routine and safe, people log in without checking the address. Genuine tracking works through the retailer's app or the carrier's real site.

What it usually looks like

  • A 'track your order/package' link in an email or text.
  • A login page that mimics the retailer or carrier.
  • A slightly-off web address.
  • A request to sign in just to see tracking.

Common warning signs

  • You must log in to view basic tracking.
  • The web address is not the real retailer or carrier.
  • The message is vague about what you ordered.
  • Generic greeting.

Example wording scammers use

Your package is on the way! Sign in to track your delivery: order-tracking-portal.net
Tracking update available — log in to view your shipment status.

These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.

What the scammers want

  • Your retailer or carrier login.
  • Reusable credentials for other accounts.
  • Access to your order history and saved payment.

What to do

  • Track orders inside the retailer's app or on the carrier's official site.
  • Do not log in from an emailed tracking link.
  • Enable two-factor authentication.
  • Delete and report.

What to do if you already responded

  • Change the password and revoke sessions.
  • Watch the account for changes to saved payment/addresses.
  • Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Related scams