The U.S. Postal Service is alerting consumers about “smishing” scams that start with fake text messages for tracking packages.
“Smishing” is a form of “phishing” where scammers use unsolicited text messages to obtain personal or financial information from consumers.
Con artists send text messages falsely claiming that the Postal Service requires responses from recipients who may or may not have ordered packages for delivery. The messages may give the false impression that the sender is a government agency, bank or other business.
The Postal Service warns that con artists send these bogus text messages hoping that recipients will click on the links.
Consumers may be tricked into providing information such as usernames and passwords, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, credit and debit card numbers and personal identification numbers.
The Postal Service does not send text messages or emails to customers unless they first request the service using a tracking number.
In order to track packages, consumers are advised to sign up with the Postal Service and use its free tools. Customers can either register online or initiate a text message using their tracking number. The Postal Service utilizes five-digit short codes to send and receive SMS messages to and from mobile phones.
Victims of these scams should report them to their bank or other financial institution.
The Postal Service also is warning about the dangers of accepting unsolicited packages with free merchandise delivered in “brushing scams.”
To report “smishing” related to the Postal Service, send an email to [email protected] and forward the smishing/text message to 7726.
The email should include the following information:
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