January 1, Beware of Bogus USPS Texts: Online Phishers Eye Postal Delivery for Latest Scam

Be alert! If a random text message drops into your inbox, cautioning you about a hiccup in your package delivery that demands immediate attention, don’t be fooled. It’s likely not from the trustworthy U. S. Postal Service.

Recent findings from a phishing report by software firm Guardio reveal that the Postal Service seems to be the latest brand of choice for scammers in their online phishing expeditions conducted during the previous quarter.

In a proactive move, last month the USPS felt compelled to issue a warning to their customers. They urged vigilance against suspicious mobile text messages that come with an odd web link hinting at a USPS delivery issue which requires your intervention.

This important security alert outlined: “If you never formally requested USPS to track a specific package, ignore the link! This type of text message falls under a sophisticated scam known as smashing.”

In many instances, the cunning culprits engineer messages to alert customers that their anticipated package is held up due to an incomplete delivery address. They then masterfully guide the unsuspecting customer to click on an embedded link to rectify the supposed delivery address issue to expedite the package’s delivery.

Other frequently deployed baits include alarming phrases such as “your account has been suspended,” “there is suspicious activity on your account,” or “a package awaits your collection at the Post Office.”

These digital predators employ these misleading messages to extract personal information from their victims. Their loot includes account usernames and passwords, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, credit and debit card details, or personal identification numbers. These hauls pave the way for them to perpetrate crimes like financial fraud.

Karin Zilberstein, the Vice President of product at Guardio, commented that these unchecked scams are a “frightening but predictable result of the surge in online shopping.”

Zilberstein added that these scams, “often mimic ‘standard’ day-to-day activities, thereby making the USPS an ideal scapegoat.” As most individuals tend to be on the lookout for a package, they are likelier to fall prey to these scams and unwittingly surrender their personal details.

The USPS, however, has reiterated that it only employs 5-digit short codes for sending and receiving SMS alerts pertaining to package notifications via mobile phones.

Furthermore, the Postal Service does not send unsolicited text messages or emails to customers unless the service is specifically requested with a tracking number. Importantly, these messages never contain a link.

If you have been eagerly awaiting a package and suspect you’ve been the target of a scam text message, report it immediately. Stick to USPS.com for authentic tracking details and other necessary resources.

“The Postal Inspection Service, the federal law enforcement and security arm of the USPS, isn’t just about investigating crimes committed against the Postal Service, its employees, and customers, but also plays a pivotal role in preventing crime and educating Postal customers,” a USPS spokesperson said.

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