When you’re anxiously awaiting a package, you’re likely keeping a close eye on shipping updates to know when to expect it. So when USPS sends a text to tell you a worker couldn’t deliver your package, it’s natural to panic! But here’s the truth: That urgent message is just a common scam designed to steal your information—and it’s being sent to cell phones everywhere. Thankfully, you have the power to protect your data and money! Keep reading to learn what to do if you are targeted in the widespread USPS delivery text scam.
What is the USPS delivery text scam?
Similar to the FedEx delivery scam, this phishing attempt generally starts via a text message. Recipients are told that USPS was unable to deliver a package and they must set up a new delivery time and date via the provided link.
With online shopping so popular, seeing a text message titled “USPS Ground Reschedule Your Delivery” can quickly grab your attention. Unfortunately, this is exactly why these criminals create these particular phishing texts—they know it could be a realistic scenario for many shoppers.
“These scammers bank on the fact that everyday TONS of people are ‘waiting for a delivery,’” someone commented in a recent Reddit post.
The hope is that victims will respond to these messages, believing they have been contacted about an actual delivery. But in reality, the scammers are looking to steal money or sensitive information.
How does the USPS text scam work?
When you’re targeted in a USPS delivery text scam, you’ll receive a message informing you that the postal service has one of your packages in their possession.
Here’s one example a Reddit user received: “We attempted to deliver your USPS package, but unfortunately, we could not hand it over to you. A personal signature is required upon receipt of this package. To set up a new delivery time, please follow the steps outlined below. Reschedule now.”
You are then told to click on the link or paste it into your browser to access. (In the phishing attempt above, the recipient was also told to respond with a “Y” to the text to activate the link.)
Then, on this official-looking website, you’ll be prompted to pick a new date and time for the delivery. You’ll also be encouraged to confirm that your contact information is correct to get timely updates on your delivery. In reality, the scammers are looking for your sensitive data to use for their own benefit.
As with other phishing attempts, fraudsters want you to act as quickly as possible before you have a chance to realize it’s a scam. They tell you your package is only being held at a local facility for a few days, adding that if you don’t reschedule in time, the item will be returned to the sender.
Naturally, if you actually are expecting a package, you’re more likely to act quickly and comply. No one wants an order they paid for to go missing!
What to do if you clicked on the link
If you receive one of these fake USPS delivery texts, avoid responding or clicking on any links. Before you delete the message, however, report it to The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) at spam@uspis.gov. This spreads awareness and helps the law enforcement members of the postal service track down the criminals behind these attacks.
If you did provide information on the fake USPS website, change passwords for any accounts (such as bank, email and USPS My Choice) the scammers may now be able to access. If you provided financial information to the scammers, it’s imperative that you also contact your bank and monitor your financial accounts.
Did you experience significant financial loss or identity theft as a result of the scam? Don’t hesitate to contact the USPS, local law enforcement or an attorney general’s office. They can assist you and provide next steps to help you recover.
How to spot a fake USPS message
With these phishing USPS messages so commonplace, knowing what to watch for can keep you from becoming a victim.
Here are the warning signs that this reschedule delivery text is a scam:
- Misspelled websites
- Unknown senders with unusual email addresses or telephone numbers
- A sense of urgency
- Noticeable grammatical or spelling errors
The most important thing to know? The United States Postal Inspection Service states that, “USPS will not send customers text messages or e-mails without a customer first requesting the service with a tracking number, and it will NOT contain a link.”
When in doubt about the status of a package, input the tracking number on the official USPS website. It will tell you everything you need to know about delivery!
