SMISHING: A USPS Scam That Is Hitting Maine Hard
Yesterday as I was working a text came through to my phone. I checked it and immediately thought it was legit. But then took a second look when I had more time and noticed the verbiage looked suspicious.
The photo of the text is below. Let's be clear, this is a scam and is not a legitimate message from USPS.
Obviously the word "Notice" is not spelled with an "N" as well as the "pls" that should be "please." Misspelling is a sure fire way to spot a phishing or "smishing" scam.
Smishing is defined as,
the fraudulent practice of sending text messages purporting to be from reputable companies in order to induce individuals to reveal personal information, such as passwords or credit card numbers.
According to the United States Postal Service Office Of Inspector General,
During an audit of the Postal Service’s social media activity, the OIG uncovered a Smishing campaign which involved a third party posing as USPS, claiming to have a link to information about a package.
Alerting customers to potential fraud helps protect their personal information and preserves the Postal Service’s brand, reputation, and customer loyalty.
This is not real! Do not click on the link!
If you already have, it seems like you'll be okay.
Also on the same website,