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Postal Inspectors Warn Consumers Of Bogus Postal Service Email And Text Message Scams

todayMay 4, 2021 6

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WASHINGTON – The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is warning consumers that scammers are sending bogus emails (phishing) and text messages (smishing) purporting to be from the U.S. Postal Service.

These messages are prompting unsuspecting consumers to confirm their personal delivery information by clicking a link or downloading an attachment, that, when opened, can activate a virus and steal information such as usernames, passwords and financial account information.

Postal Inspectors are advising consumers the U.S. Postal Service would not send text messages or emails about unclaimed packages.

How can consumers protect themselves from these scams? The U.S. Postal Inspection Service reminds everyone:

.Do not click on any links or attachments.

.Do not give out personal information. Be aware that the U.S. Postal Service does not notify customers of package delivery attempts, or request personal information, via email or text message.

.Examine the message closely. Poor grammar and spelling errors are a good indication that the email is fraudulent.

.Verify the identity of the sender. Also, take the time to ask yourself why the sender is asking for your information.

.Start making safety and security practices routine. Keep your security software and applications up to date.

Additionally, report USPS-related smishing/phishing by sending an email to spam@uspis.gov:

.For text messages, without clicking on the web link, copy the body of the suspicious text message and paste into a new email. Or, attach a screenshot of the text .message showing the phone number of the sender and the date sent.

.For emails, simply forward it. Provide your name in the email.

.Include any relevant details in your email, for example: if you clicked the link, if you lost money, or if you provided any personal information.

.The Postal Inspection Service will contact you if more information is needed.

For more information on these and other scams, consumers should visit https://www.uspis.gov/tips-prevention

Written by: WKTN Staff

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