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Is this text a scam?

Is this DHL text a scam?

Updated October 16, 2026 · 5 min read

Fake DHL texts say a parcel is waiting or held, and push you to a link. DHL’s fraud pages say warning signs include shortened web addresses, generic sender names such as “Delivery”, and full mobile numbers where DHL typically uses short codes. Check the parcel on dhl.com yourself, without the link. Here is the full checklist.

The short answer

If you’re not expecting a DHL parcel, or the text pushes you to a link and a payment, treat it as fake. DHL advises verifying a tracking number on its own tracking page, without clicking links. We can’t see your message, so no page can tell you for certain. If you’re unsure, don’t use the link: go to the company’s own app or website, or call a number you already trust.

Warning signs on DHL’s fraud pages

  • Shortened links, such as bit.ly, which hide where the link goes.
  • A generic sender name like “Delivery”.
  • A full mobile number, especially with an international code. DHL’s guidance says it typically uses short codes.
  • An urgent tone, grammar mistakes or unfamiliar web addresses.
  • Emails that don’t come from DHL’s official domains, such as @dhl.com. Spoofed emails can still use real-looking domains, so check the other signs too.

What to do now

  1. Don’t click links, open attachments or reply.
  2. Check any real parcel by entering the tracking number on dhl.com yourself.
  3. Report it using the address on DHL’s fraud awareness page for your country. DHL’s pages differ: for example, the UK and Canada pages give phishing@dhl.com.
  4. Forward the text to 7726 (US and UK) and report it at your national fraud service.
  5. Delete the message and block the sender.

A note on fees

DHL’s guidance is that payment requests by email or text are narrow, for example customs duties and taxes. That’s exactly what scammers copy, so don’t pay through a link: check the charge on dhl.com or by calling the number on DHL’s own site.

If you clicked, paid or shared details

  • Call your bank or card issuer immediately.
  • Change passwords you typed, and anywhere you reuse them.
  • Report the fraud to the FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov), Report Fraud (reportfraud.police.uk) or your own national service.

Check it again

You can also paste the message into our free scam text checker. It runs on your message and doesn’t store it.

Frequently asked questions

Does DHL send text messages?

It can send delivery updates, typically from short codes. Shortened links, a generic sender name or a full mobile number are warning signs.

Where do I report a fake DHL text?

Use the fraud awareness page for your country on dhl.com. The UK and Canada pages give phishing@dhl.com. Forward texts to 7726 as well.

Will DHL ask me to pay a fee by text?

DHL’s pages note that payment requests are limited, for example customs duties. Don’t pay via a text link: check on dhl.com.

Sources

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