Waiting for a package? Be careful with unexpected delivery text messages!
With more people shopping online, scammers have another opportunity to trick us. One common scam involves a text message claiming that a package cannot be delivered because of an incorrect address or another delivery problem.
The message might even mention USPS or another familiar delivery company.
How the Scam Works
You receive a text saying something like:
“Your package could not be delivered due to an incomplete address. Please update your information.”
The message includes a link that supposedly takes you to a page where you can correct the problem.
But that link may lead to a fake website designed to collect your personal information, credit card details, or other sensitive information.
Sometimes the fake website asks you to pay a small redelivery fee.
Why These Messages Work
Think about how often you order something online.
If you’re expecting a delivery, a message about a package problem might seem believable.
Scammers don’t necessarily know that you’re waiting for a package. They send messages to many people, hoping to reach someone expecting a delivery.
What Should You Do?
If you receive an unexpected delivery text:
- Don’t click the link. Even if the message looks official.
- Check your order. Open the retailer’s website or app directly.
- Use the official carrier website. Type USPS.com or the appropriate delivery company’s address yourself.
- Don’t enter payment information. Especially when a text unexpectedly requests a small fee.
- Delete or report suspicious messages. You can also use your phone’s spam-reporting feature.
Remember, legitimate delivery notifications do exist. The warning sign is an unexpected message trying to rush you into visiting an unfamiliar website or providing sensitive information.
Ricmer Quick Take
Expecting a package doesn’t mean every delivery text is legitimate.
When in doubt, skip the message and check the delivery through the official website or app.
A few extra seconds could prevent a costly mistake.
Need Local Help?
Clicked a suspicious link or entered information into a questionable website?
Ricmer Tech Support provides friendly local technology assistance, computer troubleshooting, and security guidance for residents and small businesses throughout Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania.
Reference: https://www.uspis.gov/news/scam-article/smishing-package-tracking-text-scams
