Have you ever received a text message out of the blue about a USPS package delivery issue, urging you to click a suspicious link? If you weren’t expecting a package or didn’t initiate a USPS tracking request, do not click that link! You’ve likely encountered a smishing scam.
Smishing, a type of phishing, uses text messages to trick you. These deceptive messages aim to steal your personal or financial information. Scammers often pretend to be legitimate organizations like government agencies or well-known companies, such as USPS, to make their claims seem real. Remember, USPS commonly uses 5-digit short codes for legitimate SMS communications.
These criminals are after your Personally Identifiable Information (PII), which includes things like usernames, passwords, Social Security numbers, birthdates, credit card details, PINs, and other sensitive data. They use this stolen information for further criminal activities, especially financial fraud.
USPS provides free tools to track your packages. However, to use these services, you must either register online or start a tracking request via text with your tracking number. USPS will never charge you for tracking services! Crucially, USPS will not send unsolicited text messages or emails asking for personal information or containing links if you haven’t specifically requested tracking for a package. If you receive a text about a USPS package in the process of transportation that you didn’t request and it includes a link, it’s a major red flag. Don’t click it!
If you are unsure about a text message, especially if you are expecting a delivery, resist the urge to click any links. Instead, report the message immediately and go directly to the official USPS website, USPS.com, on your computer or mobile device to track your package and find reliable information.
For detailed information on USPS tracking services and other offerings, refer to the USPS TEXT TRACKING FAQs.
To learn how to protect yourself from various consumer frauds, visit the USPS fraud prevention page.
Reporting USPS Smishing Scams: Here’s How
If you believe you’ve received a USPS-related smishing text, reporting it is crucial. Send an email to the USPS Postal Inspection Service at [email protected] with the following information:
- Copy the entire suspicious text message (without clicking any links) and paste it into a new email.
- Include your name in the email.
- Attach a screenshot of the text message that clearly shows the sender’s phone number and the date it was sent.
- Add any relevant details, such as if you clicked the link, lost money, provided personal information, or experienced any impact on your credit or personal life.
The Postal Inspection Service may contact you if they require further details. Additionally, forward the smishing text message to 7726. This action helps in reporting the scam phone number to mobile carriers.
For smishing scams not related to USPS, you can also report them to these law enforcement partners of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service:
- Forward the message to 7726.
- Report the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
- File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
Further Reading on Related Scams:
ALSO SEE BRUSHING >
ALSO SEE PHISHING >
