Delivery scam texts, also known as "smishing," are fraudulent messages that impersonate legitimate delivery services to steal personal information. These scams have become increasingly prevalent, with Americans losing approximately $1.3 billion in 2023 to such schemes (axios.com). To protect yourself, consider the following strategies:
1. How Can You Identify Delivery Scam Texts?
Scammers often impersonate reputable delivery services like USPS, UPS, or FedEx, sending messages that appear urgent and request personal or financial information. These texts may contain suspicious links or ask you to verify delivery details. For instance, a scam text might claim, "Your package is on hold. Click here to confirm delivery details." Legitimate companies typically do not request sensitive information via text messages.
2. What Are the Risks of Falling for These Scams?
Engaging with scam texts can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and unauthorized access to your accounts. Scammers may use the information obtained to commit fraud or sell your data to other malicious entities. In 2023, Americans lost approximately $1.3 billion to such scams (axios.com).
3. How Can You Block Unwanted Text Messages?
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On iPhone:
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Go to Settings > Messages > Filter Unknown Senders and enable it.
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To block a specific number, open the message, tap the contact at the top, select Info, and choose Block this Caller (guidingtech.com).
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On Android:
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Open the Messages app, tap the three-dot menu, select Settings, then Spam protection, and enable Enable spam protection.
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To block a specific number, open the message, tap the three-dot menu, and select Block & report spam (techradar.com).
4. How Can You Report Scam Texts?
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To Your Carrier:
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Forward the scam text to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your wireless provider identify and block similar messages in the future (consumer.ftc.gov).
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To the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
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Report the scam at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
5. How Can You Protect Yourself from Future Scams?
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Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Messages:
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Do not click on links or provide personal information in unsolicited texts.
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Use Trusted Sources for Tracking Deliveries:
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Sign up for official tracking notifications directly through carrier or retailer websites (axios.com).
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Consider Using Call-Blocking Apps:
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Apps like Robokiller can block unwanted text messages and robocalls, offering an additional layer of protection (hp.com).
By staying vigilant and implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to delivery scam texts.
Highlights:
- Beware of Fake USPS Text Messages, Published on Tuesday, June 11
- Four common text scams and how to spot them, Published on Tuesday, June 10
- "Don't click the link": How to avoid package delivery text scams, Published on Tuesday, December 10
