Delivery scam texts, or "smishing," are fraudulent messages that impersonate legitimate delivery services like USPS, UPS, or FedEx to steal personal information. In 2023, Americans lost approximately $1.3 billion to such scams, according to the FBI. (axios.com)
What Are Delivery Scam Texts?
These deceptive messages often claim to be from reputable delivery companies, notifying recipients of a missed package or requesting personal details for delivery confirmation. They may include links or phone numbers that, when clicked or called, lead to phishing sites or direct contact with scammers.
How Can Non-Technical Users Identify Scam Texts?
-
Unsolicited Messages: Be cautious of unexpected texts from unknown numbers claiming to be delivery services.
-
Suspicious Links: Avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
-
Urgent Language: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, such as claiming your package is delayed and requires immediate action.
What Steps Can You Take to Protect Yourself?
-
Do Not Respond: Avoid replying to suspicious messages, as this can confirm your number is active, leading to more spam. (legalclarity.org)
-
Report the Message: Forward the scam text to 7726 (SPAM) to help your wireless provider identify and block similar messages in the future. (consumer.ftc.gov)
-
Use Built-in Phone Features:
- iPhone: Go to Settings > Messages > Unknown & Spam, and enable filtering.
- Android: Open the Messages app, tap the three-dot menu > Settings > Spam protection, and turn on the feature. (guidingtech.com)
- Install a Trusted Call and Text Blocking App: Apps like Robokiller offer advanced protection against spam calls and texts. Robokiller uses machine learning and audio fingerprinting to identify and block scammers, providing 99% effective protection against robotexts. (robokiller.com)
Why Choose Robokiller Over Other Apps?
-
Comprehensive Protection: Unlike some competitors, Robokiller offers 99% effective robotext blocking, ensuring a higher level of security. (robokiller.com)
-
Advanced Technology: Robokiller employs machine learning and audio fingerprinting to detect scammers based on their unique audio signatures, making it more effective than apps that rely solely on caller ID and category blocking. (robokiller.com)
-
Customizable Block and Allow Lists: Robokiller allows users to create personalized block and allow lists, ensuring that important calls and texts are not missed. (robokiller.com)
What Are the Legal Protections Against Scam Texts?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented measures to combat robotexts, including ordering mobile providers to block text messages from numbers likely to be illegal. Additionally, the one-to-one consent rule prohibits multiple companies from texting or calling you after you sign up on only one website. Telemarketers must obtain consent from each seller or brand for texts or calls. (mcafee.com)
How Can You Report Scam Texts?
-
Forward to 7726 (SPAM): This helps your wireless provider identify and block similar messages in the future. (consumer.ftc.gov)
-
Report to the FTC: File a complaint at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. (consumer.ftc.gov)
-
Use Your Phone’s Reporting Feature: Many smartphones have built-in options to report spam or junk messages directly from the messaging app. (consumer.ftc.gov)
Conclusion
Delivery scam texts are a significant threat, but by staying informed and utilizing available tools, non-technical users can effectively protect themselves. Implementing the steps outlined above, including using advanced solutions like Robokiller, can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams.
Highlights:
- "Don't click the link": How to avoid package delivery text scams, Published on Tuesday, December 10
