If you get a text about a package delivery issue, think twice before clicking any links.
Scammers are increasingly posing as the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to trick unsuspecting consumers.
A recent report by software company Guardio found that USPS was one of the most imitated brands in phishing scams last quarter.
This trend mirrors the growth in online shopping, creating new opportunities for cybercriminals.
“As more people order goods and services online, hackers exploit this trend by creating new, relevant scams,” explains Karin Zilberstein, vice president of product at Guardio.
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These scams often use convincing messages like:
– Your package can’t be delivered due to an incomplete address
– Your account has been suspended
– There’s suspicious activity on your account
– A package is waiting for you at the Post Office
The goal? To steal personal information such as passwords, Social Security numbers, and credit card details.
USPS has taken notice, warning customers about these “smishing” attempts.
The agency stresses that it doesn’t send unsolicited texts with links. Here’s what you need to know:
1. USPS only uses 5-digit short codes for text notifications
2. They won’t text you unless you’ve requested updates for a specific package
3. Genuine USPS messages never contain links
If you receive a suspicious text about a package, don’t click any links.
If you receive a text claiming to be from USPS about a package “awaiting action,” please delete it immediately and do not open the link. These messages have no affiliation with USPS and compromise your personal data if clicked. Learn more at https://t.co/n9phYgG7di pic.twitter.com/hv3Jo5cOuV
— U.S. Postal Service (@USPS) July 8, 2024
Instead, go directly to USPS.com for tracking information.
You can also report scam messages to help combat this growing problem.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is actively working to prevent these crimes.
A USPS spokesperson told FOX Business, “The Postal Inspection Service… takes an active role in crime prevention messaging to Postal customers.”
As online shopping continues to grow, staying vigilant is key.
When in doubt, verify directly with USPS rather than responding to unexpected messages.
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By being cautious, you can protect your personal information and avoid falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams.
