Beware of fake USPS text scams. Here's what you need to know
FILE-A mail carrier in loads his truck in Modesto, California. (Photo By Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Customers are receiving warnings about a fake USPS text scam notifying them of a package delivery.
The USPS issued an alert to customers in June about the hoax, telling them to be cautious of mobile text messages with a strange web link that suggests a postal service delivery requires a response from the individual.
The software company Guardio released a recent phishing report noting that the USPS was the most imitated brand in phishing scams during the second quarter.
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Scammers will use fake texts to obtain personal information from people including social security numbers, credit and debit card numbers, or personal information, according to FOX Business.
Some thieves will also create messages informing customers that their package won’t be delivered due to an incomplete delivery address. The message then prompts the person to click a link to complete the delivery address to ship the package.
Other schemes involve statements like "Your account has been suspended," "there is suspicious activity on your account,"and "There is a package waiting for you at the Post Office."
How will I know if USPS is sending me a package?
USPS tells FOX Business that it only uses 5-digit short codes to send and receive SMS to and from cell phones when issuing package notifications.
The Postal Service will also not send customers text messages or e-mails without a customer requesting the service with a tracking number, and the message will also never have a link.
FOX Business contributed to this report. This story was reported from Washington, D.C.