Canada Post text scam: is that “parcel on hold” text real?

Almost certainly not. Canada Post says a text asking you to click a link and pay a fee to release a delivery is not from them and should be deleted.

Not sure about a message? Paste it into our free ScamCheck tool for a plain-English verdict. Nothing you paste leaves your phone or computer.

Check a message free

What real Canada Post texts look like

Tracking and mail notification texts only come from 272727 or 55555, and only if you signed up for them.
Customer support may text from 613-734-1002 or 613-734-1004.
Real links go to canadapost-postescanada.ca. Anything else is a fake.
Canada Post won't charge you to track or release a delivery.

Warning signs

It says your delivery is on hold because of an unpaid fee or because nobody was home.
It came from a regular 10-digit number or an email address.
Typos, odd grammar, or a link that isn't canadapost-postescanada.ca.
It asks you to download a file.

The safe way to check: open your browser yourself, type canadapost.ca, and enter your tracking number, or use the Canada Post app. Never use the link in the text. Source: Canada Post's guide to suspicious texts and emails.

If you already clicked or paid

If you entered a card number, call the number on the back of your card right away and ask to block it.
If you typed a password, change it, and turn on two-step sign-in.
Watch your statements for small charges you don't recognise.

How to report it

Forward the text to 7726 (it spells SPAM). It's free, and it helps Canadian phone companies block the scam for everyone. Get Cyber Safe explains how.
Report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online, or call 1-888-495-8501 (weekdays 10 am to 4:45 pm Eastern). You can report even if you didn't lose money.
If you lost money, also call your local police.

Quick answers

Does Canada Post text you about unpaid fees?

No. Canada Post says texts asking you to click a link and pay a fee to release a delivery are not from them. Duty and taxes, when owed, show on the real tracking page.

What numbers does Canada Post text from?

Notification texts come only from 272727 or 55555, and only if you signed up. Customer support may text from 613-734-1002 or 613-734-1004.

Where do I report a fake Canada Post text?

Forward it to 7726, and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or at 1-888-495-8501.

Last checked 2026-10-16 against official sources linked on this page. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.