Greg's Corner

Protect Yourself from Holiday Delivery Scams

By Greg Collier

The week leading up to Christmas is a pivotal time for those relying on the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to send or receive last-minute packages. With millions of pieces of mail being delivered daily during the holiday season, consumers eagerly awaiting their deliveries are often targeted by scammers using deceptive tactics.

One of the most prevalent schemes during this time is the use of fraudulent text messages designed to appear as legitimate delivery updates from the USPS. These messages often include a web link or phone number, prompting recipients to provide personal or financial information. However, if you haven’t specifically signed up for USPS tracking updates, any unsolicited communication should raise a red flag.

This type of scam, known as ‘smishing’, involves using text messages to lure individuals into sharing sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, Social Security numbers, or payment details. Fraudsters often impersonate trusted entities like government agencies or financial institutions to make their requests seem credible. Once they obtain this information, it can be sold on the dark web or used for further fraudulent activities.

Smishing messages are crafted to exploit the recipient’s sense of urgency or curiosity. During the holiday season, when people are keenly tracking their packages, these scams become even more convincing. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service cautions against responding to any unexpected messages, particularly those that request account verification or payment details.

USPS officials emphasize that the agency does not send unsolicited text messages regarding packages. If you receive such a message, avoid clicking on links, replying, or calling any numbers provided. Instead, independently verify the sender’s legitimacy by visiting the organization’s official website or contacting their customer service using trusted contact information.

The USPS offers several secure methods for tracking your mail and packages. When you send a package, the receipt includes a tracking number. This number can be entered on the USPS website to check delivery status. Official replies will always include USPS branding, the tracking number, and delivery details.

Another useful tool is USPS Informed Delivery, which provides an email preview of incoming mail and packages. Signing up for these services ensures you can stay informed without relying on unsolicited notifications.

Always remember that legitimate organizations, including the USPS, will not request personal or financial information via text message. If you receive a suspicious message, delete it immediately and do not engage with the sender. Enable two-factor authentication for online accounts to add an extra layer of protection, and regularly monitor your financial statements for unauthorized activity.

During the holiday season, as you wait for your packages to arrive, taking these precautions can help safeguard your personal information. By using the USPS’s official tools and staying alert, you can ensure your holiday deliveries are secure and stress-free.