Safeguard your store this holiday season
There’s more to holiday shipping than getting packages out the door. You also need to be on the lookout for fraud attempts at your FASC. Use this info from the director of security at FedEx to protect yourself, your customers, and the FedEx employees handling all those packages.
Recognize signs of redirect and return fraud
Redirecting to another location
The scammer convinces someone at a home or business to share their tracking number. Once they have that, they redirect the delivery to another address for pickup.
Returning an empty package
In this form of fraud, the scammer buys an item online—say a designer purse. They receive it, then contact the retailer to start the return process. But they put the return label on an empty package. A tracking number is generated, FedEx (or another carrier) scans the package, and it moves through the network.
Some companies start the refund process as soon as the carrier generates a tracking number. Fraudsters know this. So, you scan the package, the scammer gets the refund—and the retailer loses out.
Best security practices for happy holidays
Remind customers to keep tracking numbers safe.
Never hand a scanned package back to a customer. You're putting your FASC account—and the FedEx network—at risk. A scammer could alter the label or replace items in the package with prohibited goods.
Look for returns that seem suspiciously light or feel empty.
Keep your FASC account secure. Do not share account details with anyone.
Always ask FedEx employees for ID, because fraudsters often pose as team members.
Watch for packages that contain cash or gift cards. In this scam, criminals trick victims by creating a sense of urgency or fear. For example, they impersonate a government official and demand legal fees.
Be aware of prohibited items. There are certain things you can't ship from your FASC, including tobacco products and cannabis. The FedEx Service Guide has more info on the types of packages you can’t accept at your store.
Preventing fraud is everyone’s business
Stay vigilant and informed to catch fraud attempts before they become a problem. If you suspect fraud, set aside the package until the customer leaves. Then, call FedEx Fraud and Security Controls at 1.866.729.9728 or email packageresearch@fedex.com with the account and tracking numbers. You can always reach out to Global Security at fraudprevention@fedex.com.
Find more FedEx fraud resources to help you avoid common scams.