16 WebsiteCompass According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans reported $330 million in losses to text scams in 2022, more than double the reported losses from 2021. And fake delivery-service texts—with most messages purportedly from USPS (U.S. Postal Service), FedEx, or UPS—were the third most reported type, behind fake bank texts and promises of free gifts or prizes. Examples of These Scams Most delivery-service texts start with an urgent message about delivering a package to your address and often include a “tracking link” that you’re urged to click in order to “update your delivery or payment preferences.”While these messages may look or sound legitimate, you should never click a link or call back the number from an unexpected delivery notice. Instead, contact the delivery service or seller directly using a verified number or website. A link may open a website that prompts you to enter personal information, or it may install malware on your device that can secretly steal personal information. The number you call back may be answered by a scam “operator” asking to verify your account information or the credit card number you used for a purchase. Other scam calls and texts may claim you need to pay money before the delivery can be made. Watch for theWarning Signs While there may be some variations between the fake delivery-service texts, depending on which delivery carrier they claim to represent, look for these common “red flags.” Beware of Fake Delivery-Service Texts Scammers claim to be from USPS, FedEx, or UPS to steal from you A growing number of Americans have received fake delivery-service texts that appear to be from a major delivery carrier, but are instead from scammers who are smishing—the term for scam attempts made via text, or SMS—for personal information and money. Beyond the Basics
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