Royal Mail scam texts (fake redelivery fees)

Updated 2026-05-02

The 'Royal Mail redelivery fee' SMS is the UK's most common phishing text. The message claims a parcel couldn't be delivered and asks for a tiny fee — usually £1.99 or £2.99 — via a link. The site looks like Royal Mail but harvests your card details and personal information.

Why the small fee is the trap

Asking for a small, plausible amount lowers your defences. Once you enter your card and address, criminals either run small test charges, sell the data, or use it to pass identity checks for credit applications in your name.

How to verify a real Royal Mail message

Royal Mail will leave a 'Something for you' card if a parcel needs a fee or signature. Genuine fees are paid via royalmail.com using the reference printed on the card — never via a link in a text.

Red flags

  • Link domain is not royalmail.com (e.g. royal-mail-redelivery.xyz)
  • Urgent language: 'parcel will be returned in 24 hours'
  • Request for full card details and date of birth
  • Sender ID is a long mobile number, not 'Royal Mail'

What to do

  1. Don't tap the link.
  2. Forward the text to 7726 (spells SPAM on a keypad) — it's free.
  3. Delete the message.
  4. If you tapped and entered card details, freeze the card in your banking app and call your bank.

Frequently asked questions

Does Royal Mail ever text about fees?

Royal Mail will only text if you've signed up for tracking notifications. They will not ask for payment by SMS link.

I paid the £2 fee — am I in trouble?

The £2 isn't the real loss. Treat your card as compromised: cancel it, watch for further charges, and check your credit report at Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.