Receiving fake delivery texts, commonly known as "smishing," is a prevalent issue in the United States. These deceptive messages often impersonate legitimate delivery services to steal personal information. Implementing effective strategies and utilizing reliable apps can significantly reduce such unwanted texts.
What Are Fake Delivery Texts?
Fake delivery texts are fraudulent messages that mimic legitimate delivery notifications. They typically contain links or prompts urging recipients to provide personal or financial information. For instance, a message claiming to be from the United States Postal Service (USPS) might ask you to click a link to reschedule a delivery, leading to a phishing site. (time.com)
How Can I Block Fake Delivery Texts on My Phone?
For iPhone Users:
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Filter Unknown Senders: Navigate to Settings > Messages and enable "Filter Unknown Senders." This feature separates messages from unknown contacts into a separate list. (mcafee.com)
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Report Junk: When you receive a suspicious message, tap "Report Junk" below the message to alert Apple and your carrier.
For Android Users:
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Block Numbers: Open the Messages app, tap the three dots in the top-right corner, select "Settings," then "Blocked numbers," and add the number you wish to block. (usa.kaspersky.com)
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Use Built-in Spam Protection: Many Android devices offer built-in spam protection. Ensure this feature is enabled in your messaging app settings.
What Are the Best Apps to Block Fake Delivery Texts?
Several apps are designed to identify and block spam texts effectively:
Robokiller:
Robokiller uses AI-powered call screening to answer calls and waste scammers’ time. It also blocks caller ID spoofing scams and includes funny “answer bots” that engage scammers in fake conversations. Additionally, it offers customizable spam filters. (blog.youmail.com)
Truecaller:
Truecaller identifies unknown numbers and blocks spam calls and texts. It has a large database of known spam numbers and provides real-time alerts. (makeuseof.com)
Aura Digital Security:
Aura offers comprehensive digital security, including spam call and text blocking. Its Call Assistant app uses AI to identify and filter spam calls and texts, effectively blocking vishing attacks and allowing you to listen to transcribed voice messages before answering unfamiliar calls. (techradar.com)
Hiya:
Hiya provides spam call and text blocking with a community-based spam reporting system. It offers caller ID and spam alerts, block lists, and call rejection rules. (appshunter.io)
RealCall:
RealCall is an AI-based app that detects, engages, and blocks spam calls and texts. It has a database of known numbers and uses AI algorithms to identify and block unwanted communications. (en.wikipedia.org)
How Do I Report Fake Delivery Texts?
Reporting fake delivery texts helps authorities and carriers take action against scammers:
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Forward the Message: Send the suspicious text to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your carrier identify and block the sender. (mcafee.com)
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Report to Authorities: For texts that are clearly scams, report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
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Use Built-in Reporting Features: Utilize your phone’s "Report Junk" feature when available.
How Can I Protect Myself from Fake Delivery Texts?
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Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Messages: Treat unsolicited texts as suspicious until proven safe and never click links or call numbers in suspicious texts. (mcafee.com)
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Verify Through Trusted Channels: Instead of clicking links, verify through trusted channels:
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Visit the company’s official website directly.
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Use official mobile apps downloaded from vetted app stores.
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Call customer service at the number on your card or official website.
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Check your actual accounts without clicking any links.
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Keep Your Software Updated: Regularly update your phone’s operating system and apps to ensure you have the latest security patches.
Conclusion
Blocking fake delivery texts requires a combination of proactive measures and the use of effective tools. By implementing the strategies outlined above and utilizing reliable apps like Robokiller, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to smishing attacks.
Highlights:
- Beware of Fake USPS Text Messages, Published on Tuesday, June 11
