Delivery scam texts, often referred to as "smishing," are fraudulent messages that impersonate legitimate delivery services like FedEx, UPS, or the USPS. These scams aim to deceive recipients into providing personal information or making unauthorized payments. Recognizing and safeguarding against these scams is crucial for everyday users.
How do delivery scam texts operate?
Scammers send text messages claiming to be from reputable delivery companies, stating issues such as missed deliveries or pending packages. These messages typically include a link directing recipients to a fraudulent website designed to steal personal information or install malware. For instance, a scam text might inform you of a delivery problem and prompt you to click a link to resolve it, leading to a fake site that requests sensitive data. (consumerreports.org)
What are the signs of a delivery scam text?
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Urgent language: Messages that create a sense of urgency, such as claiming immediate action is required to receive a package.
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Suspicious links: Links that do not direct to official delivery company websites.
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Unfamiliar sender numbers: Legitimate companies usually send messages from recognized short codes or official numbers.
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Requests for personal information: Legitimate companies will not ask for sensitive information via text.
How can you protect yourself from delivery scam texts?
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Do not click on suspicious links: Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages. Instead, visit the official website of the delivery company by typing the URL directly into your browser.
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Enable your phone's built-in spam filters:
- iPhone: Go to Settings → Messages → Filter Unknown Senders.
- Android: Open the Messages app, tap the three dots, select Settings → Spam Protection, and enable it.
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Use reputable third-party apps: Applications like Robokiller can help identify and block spam texts. Robokiller utilizes a global database of analyzed calls and employs machine learning to identify and block spam calls and texts, aiming to eliminate up to 99% of spam calls.
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Report suspicious messages: Forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) to help your carrier block similar messages. Additionally, report them to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. (ftc.gov)
What are the legal protections against scam texts?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented measures to combat scam texts, 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, ensuring that consent is specific to the website where you provided it. (mcafee.com)
What should you do if you've clicked on a suspicious link?
If you've clicked on a suspicious link:
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Do not enter any personal information: Avoid providing any sensitive data.
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Monitor your accounts: Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.
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Run a security scan: Use reputable antivirus software to check your device for malware.
What we recommend:
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Stay vigilant: Always verify the authenticity of unexpected delivery messages.
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Utilize available tools: Enable your phone's spam filters and consider using apps like Robokiller for added protection.
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Report suspicious activity: Help authorities combat scams by reporting fraudulent messages.
By staying informed and cautious, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to delivery scam texts.
