Receiving fake delivery texts, often referred to as "smishing," is a common tactic used by scammers to deceive individuals into revealing personal information or clicking malicious links. These fraudulent messages may appear to be from reputable delivery services like USPS, UPS, or FedEx, claiming issues with your package or requesting immediate action. To safeguard yourself, consider implementing the following strategies:
1. How Can I Identify Fake Delivery Texts?
Scammers often craft messages that mimic legitimate delivery notifications. Be cautious of texts that:
- Contain unfamiliar URLs or request you to click on links.
- Ask for personal or financial information.
- Use urgent language to create a sense of panic.
For instance, a message stating, "Your USPS package is delayed. Confirm your address: bit.ly/XYZ" is likely a scam. The United States Postal Service (USPS) has issued warnings about such fraudulent texts, emphasizing that they only send messages to customers who have initiated a tracking request and these messages will not contain links. (time.com)
2. How Can I Block Unwanted Text Messages?
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Messages.
- Enable Filter Unknown Senders.
This feature moves messages from unknown senders to a separate tab, reducing the chances of receiving spam in your main inbox. (guidingtech.com)
On Android:
- Open the Messages app.
- Tap the three-dot menu > Settings > Spam protection.
- Enable Enable spam protection.
This activates Google's built-in spam filter, which uses machine learning to identify and block scam texts automatically. (scamverify.ai)
3. How Can I Report Spam Texts?
Reporting spam texts helps carriers improve their filtering systems. To report a spam text:
- Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM).
This service is supported by major U.S. carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. (aura.com)
4. How Can I Protect Myself from Future Scams?
- Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Messages: Avoid clicking on links or providing personal information in response to unexpected texts.
- Use Trusted Apps: Consider using reputable apps like RoboKiller, which claims to eliminate 95% of unwanted text messages and boasts more than 11 million downloads. (hp.com)
- Stay Informed: Regularly update your device's software and stay informed about common scam tactics.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to fake delivery texts and other smishing attempts.
Highlights:
- Beware of Fake USPS Text Messages, Published on Tuesday, June 11
- New 'SMS blaster' text scams are on the rise, security experts warn - stay safe by changing this one phone setting, Published on Saturday, October 04
- "Don't click the link": How to avoid package delivery text scams, Published on Tuesday, December 10
