Watch Out for this USPS Texting Scam!

Your phone pings, alerting you to a new text. You swipe to find a message from the USPS. It tells you the scheduled delivery for your package has been changed, and they want you to click on a link to confirm. Just one click, and it’ll be done.

If you receive a text like this, you are likely looking at a scam. Here’s what you need to know about the USPS smishing text scam.

How the USPS Texting Scam Plays Out

The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) is warning of an uptick in smishing scams that use the USPS as a cover. If the victim clicks on a link in a message like the one described above, they’ll download malware, giving the scammer access to their device and personal info.

Stay ahead of this scam by knowing this simple fact: The USPS never sends unsolicited text messages about deliveries. You’ll only get a message from them if you’ve signed up for alerts about a package’s delivery. If you haven’t, and you still receive a message about a scheduled delivery change, you’re looking at a scam.

What to Do If You’re Targeted

To keep you safe from potential scams, it’s important to take some precautions. If you get a message about a delivery schedule change, make sure to confirm the identity of the sender by checking with the United States Postal Service (USPS) first.

Also, don’t reply to or click on any links provided within the message. If you receive such a message, just take a screenshot and share it with the law enforcement agencies.

After that, please delete the message, block the number, and update the security on your device. Remember, your safety is a top priority, so don’t share sensitive information, such as your Social Security number or account details, with an unverified contact.

Report The Scam to USPIS

It’s important to take action against scams to protect yourself and others. One way to do this is by reporting any suspicious activity to the proper authorities.

First, email a screenshot of the text to [email protected]. Make sure your screenshot shows the number of the sender as well as the date it was sent. You’ll also need to include your name in the email so the team can reach you if necessary, along with any other relevant details about the scam.

You can also report the scam to FTC.gov.

By reporting the scam, you can help safeguard others from falling victim to the texting scam and prevent the perpetrators from getting away with it. Remember, your timely action can make a big difference and contribute towards making the world a safer and more trustworthy place to live in.

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This article is for educational purposes only. WeStreet Credit Union makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or specific suitability of any information presented. Information provided should not be relied on or interpreted as legal, tax or financial advice. Nor does the information directly relate to our products and/or services terms and conditions.