Have you ever received a text message about a USPS delivery that you weren’t expecting, complete with a strange web link asking for your response? If you didn’t specifically request USPS tracking for a package, do not click that link! You’ve likely encountered a smishing scam.
Smishing is a type of phishing attack carried out through text messages or phone numbers. These deceptive messages are designed to trick you into giving up your personal or financial information. Scammers often pretend to be legitimate organizations like government agencies or well-known companies to gain your trust. While the Postal Service does use 5-digit short codes for SMS communication, it’s crucial to know how to differentiate between legitimate USPS tracking and a scam.
These criminals are after your Personally Identifiable Information (PII), such as usernames, passwords, Social Security numbers, birth dates, credit and debit card details, PINs, and other sensitive data. This stolen information is then used for further criminal activities, most commonly financial fraud.
The good news is that the Postal Service provides free tools to Track Us Postal Service Mail and packages. However, you need to initiate this tracking yourself, either by registering online or by sending a text message with your tracking number. USPS will never charge you for tracking services! Importantly, the USPS will not send unsolicited text messages or emails asking for personal information or containing links if you haven’t specifically requested tracking with a tracking number. Therefore, if you receive an unexpected text message about track us postal service mail that includes a link and you didn’t initiate a tracking request directly with USPS, do not click the link!
If you’re unsure about a text message but are expecting a delivery, resist the urge to click any links. Instead, report the message and go directly to the official USPS website, USPS.com, on your computer or mobile device to track us postal service mail and find reliable information.
For detailed information on official USPS tracking services, you can visit the USPS TEXT TRACKING FAQs. To learn more about protecting yourself from fraud, visit the USPS fraud prevention page.
HOW TO REPORT USPS SMISHING SCAMS:
If you believe you’ve received a USPS-related smishing scam, reporting it is crucial. Send an email to the USPS Postal Inspection Service at [email protected].
- 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, clearly showing the sender’s phone number and the date it was sent.
- Provide any relevant details in your email. For example, mention if you clicked the link, if you lost money, if you provided personal information, or if you’ve experienced any impact on your credit or personal life.
- The Postal Inspection Service may contact you if they require more information.
- Forward the smishing text message to 7726. This action helps in reporting the scam phone number.
Complaints about smishing scams not related to USPS can also be reported to the following U.S. Postal Inspection Service law enforcement partners:
- 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).
SEE ALSO:
BRUSHING SCAM >
PHISHING SCAM >
