Text message scams are on the rise, and one of the most common forms targets people expecting mail or packages. Cybercriminals are increasingly impersonating trusted services like the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to deceive recipients and gain access to sensitive information. These scams can be surprisingly convincing, making it essential to stay informed and alert.
Key Takeaways
- USPS text scams impersonate the U.S. Postal Service to steal sensitive information.
- Scammers use deceptive text messages with fake tracking links to lure victims.
- Never share personal or financial information through unsolicited text messages.
- Report USPS-related phishing attempts to the Postal Inspection Service and other relevant authorities.
- Learn how to identify red flags in scam messages.
- Use tools like Guardio to detect and prevent future scams.
Boogie down the secure path
What is a USPS Text Scam?
A USPS text scam is a fraudulent message that appears to come from the U.S. Postal Service but is actually sent by cybercriminals attempting to steal personal or financial information. These scams are a subset of a broader category known as smishing (SMS phishing), a technique used by scammers to manipulate victims into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive data. These fraudulent texts often claim there is an issue with a package delivery, a missed attempt, or an urgent security alert requiring immediate action.
USPS text scams are particularly effective because they exploit the rise of online shopping, where people frequently receive package updates and delivery notifications. With so many orders in transit, it’s easy to lose track of shipments, making it more likely that a scam message will blend in with legitimate alerts. Cybercriminals send these scams in bulk, knowing that even tech-savvy individuals can fall victim, as it only takes a moment of distraction for someone to click a malicious link, thinking it’s a genuine update about a package.
The Rise of USPS Text Scams
According to research by Guardio, USPS phishing scams saw a sharp rise in Q4 2024, significantly increasing their share of total brand impersonation attempts compared to earlier quarters. The share of USPS-related phishing attacks fluctuated throughout the year, accounting for 11.6% in Q1, dropping to 6.3% in Q2, then slightly rising to 7.0% in Q3, before surging to 16.6% in Q4.
In Q4 2024, USPS became the most impersonated brand in phishing scams, accounting for a notable 16.6% of all brand impersonation attempts. Fraudsters leverage USPS’s trusted name to send mass phishing messages, often disguised as fake delivery notifications or urgent package updates. These AI-powered attacks are designed to look legitimate, preying on the natural urgency people feel when expecting packages. In this fast-paced digital age, it’s easy to click a malicious link without noticing, especially when the scam blends seamlessly with real delivery alerts. This surge in postal-related scams highlights the growing risk, making it crucial to remain vigilant.
How USPS Text Scams Work and Common Tactics
USPS text scams come in several disguises. Scammers rely on urgency and familiarity to catch recipients off guard. Messages often include official-looking language, USPS branding, or shortened URLs to disguise malicious links. They may prompt you to "verify delivery details," "claim a prize," or "reschedule a missed package", all designed to pressure you into quick action without thinking.
Some messages claim you owe a small fee for delivery, while others alert you to a "suspicious login" on your USPS account. Here are a few examples you might see:
- "Your package is on hold due to incomplete address info. Update now: [link]"
- "USPS: We missed your delivery today. Reschedule here: [link]"
- "Confirm your identity to receive your USPS package: [link]"
Recognizing the format and language of these messages can help you avoid becoming a victim.
Common Types of USPS Text Scams: Examples
Scammers use a variety of deceptive tactics in their messages. Here are some of the most frequently seen USPS text scam formats:
- Fake Missed Delivery Notifications: Scammers claim a delivery attempt failed and urge you to click a link to reschedule.
- Delivery Fee Scams: Messages say you must pay a small shipping fee to release your package, an attempt to steal your financial info.
- Prize or Reward Scams: Fraudulent texts claim you’ve won sweepstakes or lottery and ask for personal details to "verify" your identity.
- Package Redirection Scams: Scammers use deceptive tracking links to trick you into redirecting packages, often to an address they control.
- Malware and Ransomware Attacks: Clicking fake links can install malicious software that steals data or locks your device.
- Suspicious Account Activity Alerts: Texts pretend to be from USPS, warning of “unusual activity” and asking for login credentials.
- Customer Satisfaction Survey Scams: Fake surveys promise rewards, but actually harvest your personal information.
- Callback Scams: Messages urge you to call a fake USPS number, leading to phishing attempts over the phone.
- Fake Billing Address Issues: Scammers say there’s a billing problem and request updated payment info.
- No One Available to Sign Scams: You’re told a package couldn’t be delivered due to no signature and asked to reschedule via a fraudulent link.
How to Spot a USPS Text Scam
Being able to identify a USPS text scam is crucial for protecting your personal and financial information. Here are several warning signs to look out for. Each one can help you spot and avoid falling victim to a USPS text message scam:
Unsolicited Messages
If you receive a text message from USPS without having opted in to receive such updates, it's a red flag. The U.S. Postal Service only sends text messages if you've specifically signed up for tracking notifications or delivery alerts.
Poor Grammar and Spelling Errors
Scam messages often contain noticeable grammar issues, awkward phrasing, or spelling mistakes. Official USPS communications are typically professionally written and free from such errors.
Requests for Personal Information
Legitimate USPS messages will never ask you to provide sensitive personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank account details, passwords, or credit card numbers.
Urgent or Threatening Language
Scammers rely on creating panic or urgency. Messages might warn you that your package will be returned, delivery will be canceled, or legal action will be taken unless you act immediately. This tactic is intended to pressure you into clicking a malicious link or entering information without thinking.
Suspicious Links or URLs
Fraudulent messages often include links to fake websites that closely resemble the official USPS site. These URLs may look similar to "usps.com" but use different domains or extra characters to trick you.
Fake Tracking Numbers
Scammers may include tracking numbers to make their messages appear more legitimate. However, these numbers often don’t match any real shipment. You can verify any tracking information by visiting usps.com and entering the number manually.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious USPS Text {#what-to-do-if-you-receive-a-suspicious-usps-text}
Scam messages can be convincing, but staying calm and following the right steps can protect you from falling victim. If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from USPS, here's what you should do:
-
Do Not Respond or Click Any Links: Avoid replying to the message or clicking on any links it may contain. Engaging with the scammer could confirm your number is active and lead to more scam attempts. Clicking the link may also redirect you to a malicious website or trigger a download of harmful software.
-
Check Tracking and Delivery Information Directly on USPS.com: If the message claims to involve a package or delivery, visit the official USPS website at www.usps.com and enter any tracking number manually. Do not rely on links or information provided in the text. If there’s no tracking number or it doesn’t match any package you’re expecting, it’s likely a scam.
-
Never Provide Personal or Payment Information: Legitimate USPS messages will never ask for personal details like your Social Security number, credit card info, bank account numbers, or passwords. If a message is requesting such data, it's a red flag. Providing this information can lead to identity theft or unauthorized charges.
-
Block and Delete the Message: After confirming it’s a scam, block the number to prevent future messages from the same sender. Then, delete the message from your phone to avoid accidentally clicking it later. Most smartphones have options to report and block spam messages directly from the messaging app.
-
Contact USPS Directly to Verify: If you’re unsure whether a message is legitimate, call USPS customer service or visit a local post office. They can verify whether there is any issue with your delivery. Use official contact methods found on the USPS website to avoid falling for impersonation scams.
How to Report a USPS Text Scam
If you’ve received a suspicious text message claiming to be from USPS, it’s important to report it to the proper authorities. Reporting not only helps protect you but also assists in stopping scammers from targeting others. Here’s how to take action:
-
Report to USPS (Postal Inspection Service)
Forward the suspicious text to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service by emailing it to spam@uspis.gov. You can also file an online report on their official website. Be sure to include as many details as possible, such as the phone number it came from, the content of the message, and any links it included. -
Report to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission)
Visit reportfraud.ftc.gov to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC monitors and investigates fraud cases and uses these reports to track scam trends and protect consumers nationwide. -
Report to the FCC (Federal Communications Commission)
The FCC also accepts reports related to suspicious and unwanted text messages. Go to fcc.gov/complaints to submit your complaint. Your report helps them take regulatory action and work with mobile carriers to prevent scam messages. -
Notify Your Mobile Carrier
Forward the scam message to 7726 (SPAM), a centralized spam-reporting number supported by most major carriers. This helps your carrier investigate and potentially block the scam number. -
Contact State or Local Authorities
You can also report the incident to your local consumer protection office or the state attorney general’s office. They may be able to offer specific guidance or pursue action if multiple complaints arise from your area.
How to Protect Yourself from USPS Text Scams
Scammers are getting smarter, but with the right precautions, you can protect yourself from falling victim to USPS text scams. Here are several practical and effective steps you can take to protect your personal data and online security:
Track Packages Only Through Official USPS Channels
Always verify package details directly through the official USPS website or mobile app. Avoid clicking on tracking links sent via unsolicited texts, as these are often phishing attempts. Bookmark the official site to ensure you're visiting the correct page every time.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Secure your online USPS account and other important accounts with two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second verification method, such as a text code or authenticator app, to access your account.
Monitor Bank Statements and Credit Reports Regularly
Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements to catch suspicious charges early. In addition, regularly check your credit reports through free services or official credit bureaus to detect any unauthorized activity that might indicate identity theft.
Use Security Tools for Enhanced Protection
Install security tools like Guardio, which can detect and block access to known scam websites. These tools often include features that flag phishing attempts, alert you about data breaches, and prevent malware downloads.
Keep Your Device Software and Apps Updated
Regularly updating your phone and apps is crucial. Software updates often include security patches that protect your device from new threats and vulnerabilities that scammers exploit to deliver malware or steal data.
What to Do If You Fall Victim to a USPS Text Scam
If you've been scammed, act quickly to protect your data and minimize the impact. Here's a guide to help:
- Report the Scam: Forward the message to spam@uspis.gov (U.S. Postal Inspection Service), report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, and send the message to 7726 (SPAM) to alert your mobile carrier.
- Scan for Malware: If you clicked a link or downloaded anything, run a security scan using trusted antivirus or mobile security tools. Avoid entering sensitive data until your device is cleared.
- Contact Financial Institutions: Notify your bank or credit card provider if you shared payment info. Freeze or cancel compromised cards and dispute unauthorized charges.
- Monitor Accounts Closely: Watch for unusual activity in bank, credit, and online accounts. Set up transaction alerts and regularly check statements.
- Use Identity Theft Protection (if needed): If you shared personal info like your SSN, consider using identity monitoring services. These tools can alert you to suspicious credit activity.
- Update Your Passwords: Change passwords for affected and related accounts. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for extra security.
- Stay Informed: Learn about phishing and smishing tactics to avoid future scams. Share your experience to help others stay aware.
Acting fast can limit the damage, and there are plenty of resources available to support your recovery.
Pro Tip – How to Outsmart USPS Text Scams
Staying proactive is the best way to avoid falling for USPS text scams and other similar fraud tactics. Here are some highly effective preventative strategies that can significantly reduce your risk:
Sign Up for Scam Alerts: Stay informed by subscribing to scam alert services from organizations like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. These alerts keep you updated on the latest fraud tactics and help you recognize new types of USPS scam messages as they emerge.
Regularly Audit Your Digital Footprint: Periodically review your online presence by searching your name and checking which websites have your information. Remove or update outdated or unnecessary data to limit what scammers can find and use against you.
Educate Friends and Family: Scammers often target the less tech-savvy. Take time to inform your loved ones about the risks of USPS text scams, how they work, and how to spot red flags. Share examples and encourage them to verify messages before clicking any links or entering personal information.
Why Guardio is Your First Line of Defense Against USPS Text Scams
Guardio goes beyond just blocking phishing links and fake USPS websites. These scam texts are part of a much bigger, AI-powered threat that continues to grow in scale and sophistication. As more personal data is leaked online through breaches, your phone number and personal details become accessible to scammers, enabling them to craft highly targeted and convincing smishing attacks.
Scammers use this leaked data to personalize their messages, making them look legitimate and increasing the likelihood that you'll click. These fake texts often look like they're from USPS, UPS, or other delivery services, playing on your expectations and urgency. The danger is real, and it's growing every day.
With Guardio, you're securing your entire digital footprint. It scans the web for compromised data linked to your email or phone number, helping you identify exposure. You'll receive real-time alerts when action is needed, such as changing a compromised password.
Guardio doesn’t just warn you about scams; it actively blocks phishing sites and fake USPS tracking links before they load. If you click a suspicious SMS link, Guardio checks it in real-time and stops the page from opening if it’s known to be malicious. On iOS devices, Guardio takes it a step further by filtering out scam texts before they even land in your inbox, preventing you from falling for a scam in the first place.
As smishing attacks evolve with the help of AI and as data breaches become more frequent, traditional awareness alone isn't enough. Guardio empowers you with the tools you need to take back control of your privacy, protect your identity, and stay ahead of digital threats in an increasingly dangerous online world.
Conclusion
USPS text scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting unsuspecting individuals with deceptive messages designed to steal personal and financial information. Staying vigilant, recognizing red flags, and using official USPS resources can help protect against fraud. Strengthen your cybersecurity defenses with Guardio and educate those around you to minimize risks.
Guardio is Featured in USPS Scam Coverage
When it comes to USPS scams, Guardio has been featured in several news outlets:
Beware of fake USPS text scams. Here's what you need to know
USPS is likely not texting you. It's a scam
‘Don’t click!’ USPS one of the most imitated brands in phishing scams
Related articles:
- Hook, Line, and Sinker: Guardio’s Guide to Foiling SMS Phishers
- How to Avoid Delivery and Shipping Scams
- Home Delivery Scams on the Rise
- Highway to Hell: Toll SMS Phishing Scams
- Phishing Explained: Everything You Need to Know About Phishing Scams
