SCAMS BULLETIN Host Jay White is an inactive attorney in San Mateo County, California.

October 3, 2020

PACKAGE DLIVERY SCAM 

Scammers are increasing their use of the fake package delivery scam. In a typical scam of this type, consumers receive a text message, email, or phone call informing them that they have a package waiting for them, or that the delivery service (e.g., FedEx, UPS, or USPS) was unable to deliver. 

To have the package delivered, the consumer asked you to click on a link and “verify” personal information, or supply payment information (like a credit card or bank routing number). In other cases, the scammers’ messages may direct recipients to a phony authentic-looking website (for example, a phishing site that looks like an Amazon customer satisfaction survey).

These delivery messages can be quite convincing—but they are fake and generated by scammers trying to extract valuable information from consumers. As consumers come to rely more on e-commerce for day-to-day needs, they may be more likely to assume these messages are legitimate.

Here are the steps you can take to reduce your risk:

*Do not click on any links or attachments in text messages or emails claiming to be from a package delivery service. If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be with a package delivery service, hang up. Do not press “1” (or any other number) to be connected to a representative.

*If you do click on a suspicious link, do not supply any personal information such as your Social Security number, mailing address, credit card number, or bank account routing information, even if it is just to “verify” your identity.

*Do not be alarmed by language in text messages, emails, or phone calls that claim your response is “urgent.” This is a common tactic that scammers use to get you to act before thinking.

*If you are unsure whether you have a package waiting for you, go the delivery service’s website (e.g., amazon.com, usps.com, or ups.com) for verification.  

If you suspect that you have become a victim, report it immediately. You can file a complaint at Fraud.org via their secure online complaint form. They will share your complaint with their network of law enforcement and consumer protection agency partners who can investigate and help put fraudsters behind bars.

ATTRIBUTION: www.fraud.org

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