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.
{{component-cta-custom}}
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.
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.
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:
Recognizing the format and language of these messages can help you avoid becoming a victim.
Scammers use a variety of deceptive tactics in their messages. Here are some of the most frequently seen USPS text scam formats:
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:
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.
Scam messages often contain noticeable grammar issues, awkward phrasing, or spelling mistakes. Official USPS communications are typically professionally written and free from such errors.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you've been scammed, act quickly to protect your data and minimize the impact. Here's a guide to help:
Acting fast can limit the damage, and there are plenty of resources available to support your recovery.
{{component-tips}}
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.
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.
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
{{component-cta-custom}}