USPS Text Scam: Is It a Scam?
The USPS text scam is one of the most common smishing (SMS phishing) attacks in the United States. Scammers send text messages pretending to be from the US Postal Service, claiming there's an issue with a package delivery. The goal is to steal your personal information, credit card details, or install malware on your device.
How This Scam Works
The scam typically follows this pattern:
1. **You receive an unsolicited text message** claiming to be from USPS about a package delivery issue.
2. **The message creates urgency** by saying your package can't be delivered, requires additional information, or that you need to pay a small fee.
3. **You're directed to click a link** that looks like it might be from USPS but actually goes to a fake website.
4. **The fake website asks for personal information** such as your name, address, phone number, and often credit card details for a "redelivery fee."
5. **Your information is stolen** and used for identity theft, unauthorized charges, or sold to other criminals.
Some sophisticated versions may also install malware on your phone if you click the link.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unsolicited messages - USPS doesn't send tracking updates via text unless you specifically signed up
- Suspicious links - The URL won't be usps.com. Look for slight misspellings like "usps-delivery.com" or random domains
- Requests for payment - USPS doesn't ask for fees via text message
- Requests for personal information - USPS won't ask for your SSN, credit card, or full address via text
- Generic greetings - Messages that say "Dear Customer" instead of your name
- Urgency and threats - "Act now or your package will be returned"
- Poor grammar and spelling - Though scammers are getting better at this
- Unknown tracking number - If you're not expecting a package from USPS
Example Scam Messages
What to Do If You Received This
- Don't click any links. Never tap on links in unexpected text messages.
- Don't reply. Replying confirms your number is active and may lead to more scams.
- Verify independently. If you're expecting a package, go directly to usps.com and enter your tracking number there.
- Delete the message. Remove it from your phone after reporting.
- Block the number. Most phones allow you to block the sender.
- Report the scam. Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM) and report it to the FTC.
What to Do If You Fell For It
- Change your passwords immediately. If you entered any login credentials, change those passwords right away.
- Contact your bank. If you entered credit card or banking information, call your bank immediately to report potential fraud and request new cards.
- Monitor your accounts. Watch for unauthorized transactions on all financial accounts.
- Place a fraud alert. Contact one of the three credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit file.
- Scan your device. Run a malware scan on your phone if you clicked a link.
- Report to the FTC. File a report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Report to USPS. Forward the scam email to [email protected] or report at uspis.gov.
- Document everything. Take screenshots and keep records in case you need them for disputes.
How to Report This Scam
- Forward to 7726 (SPAM) - Most carriers accept spam reports at this number
- Report to the FTC - File a report at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Report to USPS - Email [email protected] or visit uspis.gov
- Report to the FBI - File with the IC3 at ic3.gov
Last updated: January 13, 2026