Hi guys,
Today, I want to inform you about a nasty scam circulating worldwide that targets individuals through fake postal service text messages. One of our Incognito community members recently reported this, and it’s important for everyone to stay vigilant. Maybe they read our recent article on protecting yourself from smishing attacks and decided to report this scam to us. You can read that article here.
The Scam
Scammers are sending out text messages pretending to be from your local postal service, such as USPS in the United States. These messages typically claim that there is an issue with your package delivery and prompt you to click on a link to resolve it. The message might say something like, “Your package delivery is pending. Please confirm your details by clicking the link below.”
How the Scam Works
- Unsolicited Text Message: You receive an unsolicited text message from what appears to be your postal service, asking you to click on a link to resolve a delivery issue.
- Phishing Link: The link directs you to a fake website that looks very similar to the official postal service site. Here, you are asked to enter personal information such as your name, address, and payment details.
- Personal Information Theft: Once you enter your information, it is sent directly to the scammers, who can then use it for identity theft, financial fraud, and other malicious activities.
Real-Life Example
One of our community members recently received such a message claiming to be from USPS, stating that there was an issue with their package delivery. The message included a link to a fake USPS website. Fortunately, they recognized it as a scam and reported it to us.
How to Protect Yourself
- Verify the Sender: Always check the sender’s number or email address. Official postal services will not send text messages from random phone numbers.
- Do Not Click Links: Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited text messages. If you are expecting a delivery, go directly to the official postal service website and enter your tracking number there.
- Report the Scam: If you receive a suspicious message, report it to your postal service and delete the message. You can also forward it to me through the Incognito app, and I’ll keep our community updated on the latest scams.
- Use Incognito: Keep your Incognito app up-to-date for the latest scam alerts and security tips. If you have any questions or need assistance, contact me through the app.
Final Thoughts
Please stay alert and always verify the legitimacy of any unexpected messages. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and it’s crucial to stay informed and cautious. If you have any questions or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
Stay safe out there!
All the best,
Stephen McCormack