I recently received a suspicious text claiming to be from USPS, stating that my package was held up and that my personal information was needed for the package to be released. I was skeptical, so I researched and found out that this is a common scam tactic.
In this article, I will share my experience, what I found out during the course of my research and the steps to take if you ever find yourself in the same situation.
How The Scam Works
The USPS scam operates by sending fake emails or text messages claiming to be from USPS, stating that a package is waiting for delivery or in some cases, a package has been held up due to some issues. The scammers use fake email addresses that mimic USPS’s official email format and may contain USPS logos and branding to appear legitimate.
This message will typically create a sense of urgency, making the victim to want to take immediate action to “receive” the package. The scammer’s goal is to trick the victim into providing personal information, clicking on a malicious link, or paying a fake fee. The end game of the scam is to achieve identity theft, phishing, or financial gain.
The USPS scam circulating involves fake texts claiming to be from the United States Postal Service (USPS). Here are some common ones to watch out for:
Smishing scams:
This is the most common type used by these scammers. They send fake texts with a link to a fake USPS website, trying to trick you into entering your login credentials or personal information.
Package delivery scams:
The scammers send fake texts claiming that USPS is trying to deliver a package but needs you to click on a link or provide personal information to confirm delivery.
Tracking number scams:
In this case, the scammers send texts with a fake or a stolen tracking number, claiming that your package is being held or delayed, and ask you to contact them to resolve the issue.
Phishing scams:
You may receive texts asking you to provide personal information, such as your Social Security number or credit card details, under the guise of “verifying” your USPS account.
What Happens If you Fell For This Scam
Clicking on a link to “confirm” delivery:
In this case, the victim’s login credentials, or personal information is stolen and a malware that infects the device with harmful software is downloaded.
Providing personal information (e.g., name, address) to “verify” identity:
If a victim provides their personal information which may include their social security number (SSN), the scammer collects the personal information and may use it for, Identity theft, credit card fraud, targeted phishing attacks, selling personal information on the dark web, etc.
Paying a fee to “release” the package:
If a victim inputs their credit card information to pay a fee usually as small as $0.30, they’re hit fraudulent transactions that drains accounts. These transactions could go on until the victim takes action.
What To Do If You Fall For A Scam
Cancel your credit card
Immediately call your financial provider and cancel your credit card. By so doing, the credit card details you used for your transaction would become null and void.
Request for a new card
After the old credit card has been canceled, ask for a new card, it doesn’t cost much to get one. Your credit card issuer will issue you a new one with different numbers.
Better Business Bureau (BBB): File a complaint with the BBB if the online store is based in the United States.
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): If you are in the United States, you can file a complaint with the IC3 at https://www.ic3.gov/.
Your Local Consumer Protection Agency: Contact your local consumer protection agency or the equivalent regulatory body in your country.
Signs That Your USPS Email Isn’t Legit
- Urgent or threatening language: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency or fear to invoke action. By so doing, one may feel like they don’t have the time to make proper research.
- Spelling and grammar mistakes: Grammatical errors are usually a sign of scam or phishing emails. Legitimate companies usually have professional emails without errors.
- Missing or generic information: USPS typically addresses customers by their names, not generic greetings.
- Request for personal info: USPS never asks for sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers via email. Be cautious of emails with links or attachments from unknown sources.
- Unfamiliar sender: Scammers may use similar but not identical email addresses to impersonate USPS. If you have any doubt about an email from USPS, it is advisable to go on their official website to track your package.
- Lack of personalization: Legitimate USPS emails usually include specific details about your package or account. The scammers can’t do this as they have no access to your order details.
What To Do If You Get An Invoice Scam Email
Delete the email and block the sender:
Immediately delete the email from your inbox. This will help prevent you from accidentally clicking on any malicious links or downloading attachments. Also block the sender so that they won’t be able to send you any messages in the future.
Report the scam email:
Report the email to company’s customer support. You can forward the email to their abuse department or submit a report through their website. This will help the company take action against the scammers.
File a report to the FTC:
Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can file a complaint on their website or call their toll-free number (1-877-382-4357). The FTC will use this information to build cases against scammers.
Report to your email provider:
Report the scam email to your email provider’s abuse department. This will help them block the scammer’s email address and prevent others from receiving the same scam email.
Run a virus scan:
Consider running a virus scan on your device to ensure it is safe. This will detect and remove any malware that may have been downloaded secretly.
Change your passwords:
If you have clicked on any links or provided personal information, change your passwords immediately. Use strong and unique passwords for all accounts.
Monitor your accounts:
Keep a close eye on your financial statements and credit reports for any suspicious activity.
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Samantha