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Does USPS Contact You by Text? The Straight Dope, No Chaser

In the digital age, where every app wants your phone number and notifications buzz incessantly, it’s natural to be wary of unsolicited texts. So, let’s cut to the chase: The United States Postal Service (USPS) rarely initiates contact with customers via text message. While they might send you a text notification if you’ve specifically signed up for tracking updates and provided your phone number, unsolicited texts claiming to be from the USPS are almost certainly scams.

The Fine Print: When USPS Might Text You

Let’s drill down into those exceptions. The USPS understands the convenience of mobile communication and, therefore, offers options where text notifications are part of the service.

Tracking Updates

The most legitimate scenario for receiving a text from USPS is related to package tracking. When you ship a package or someone ships a package to you using USPS, you’re often given a tracking number. You can then opt to receive text updates about the package’s journey.

How it Works: Typically, you’ll either enter the tracking number on the USPS website (USPS.com) and specifically request text updates, or the sender of the package will provide your phone number when creating the shipping label and indicate that you should receive notifications. These notifications might include updates like “Package Accepted,” “In Transit,” “Out for Delivery,” and “Delivered.”
Legitimate Features: Keep in mind, this requires an action on your part (or the sender’s) to enroll in the notification service. The key word is enrollment. You won’t suddenly receive tracking texts from USPS unless you (or the sender) have requested them.

Informed Delivery

USPS also offers Informed Delivery, a free service that provides you with a digital preview of your mail and packages arriving soon. While Informed Delivery primarily uses email, it can also incorporate text notifications under certain circumstances, often for package-related updates. However, it still requires you to actively sign up for the Informed Delivery service and configure your notification preferences.

The Crucial Caveat: Proactive is NOT the USPS Way

Here’s the critical point: The USPS will not proactively text you out of the blue asking for personal information, payment details, or demanding immediate action. That’s just not how they operate. If you receive a text message claiming to be from USPS that asks for any of these things, it is, without a doubt, a phishing scam.

Deciphering the Deception: Spotting USPS Text Scams

These scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Knowing what to look for is your best defense.

Red Flags to Watch For

Unexpected Texts: Did you actually ship or expect a package? If the answer is no, the text is highly suspect.
Requests for Personal Information: This is the biggest red flag. Legitimate USPS texts will never ask you for your Social Security number, bank account details, credit card numbers, or passwords.
Links to Suspicious Websites: Scam texts often include links that lead to fake websites designed to steal your information. Always hover over the link (without clicking!) to see the actual URL. Genuine USPS website addresses will always end in “usps.com.” Anything else is a fake. Look for misspellings or subtle variations, like “usps.net” or “usps-tracking.com.”
Urgent Language and Threats: Scammers use urgency to pressure you into acting without thinking. Texts might claim your package is being held due to unpaid fees, and you must pay immediately to avoid delays. This is a classic scam tactic.
Generic Greetings: While not a definitive sign, many scam texts use generic greetings like “Dear Customer” instead of your actual name.

How Scammers Operate

Scammers rely on the fact that many people are expecting packages. They send out mass texts hoping that someone, somewhere, will fall for the ruse. They use various techniques, including:

Phishing: Trying to trick you into providing personal information.
Smishing: Phishing via SMS (text message).
Malware Distribution: Links in the text can download malicious software onto your phone.

What to Do if You Receive a Suspicious Text

Do NOT Click on Any Links. This is the most important rule.
Do NOT Provide Any Personal Information. Under any circumstances.
Report the Scam to the USPS. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) and then file a report with the USPS Inspection Service.
Delete the Text. Get rid of it!
Block the Number. Prevent future texts from the same source.

Staying Safe: Best Practices for Online Security

Staying vigilant and informed is the best way to protect yourself from USPS text scams and other online threats.

Be Skeptical: Question every unsolicited text message, especially those asking for personal information or demanding immediate action.
Verify Information Directly: If you’re unsure about a text message, go directly to the official USPS website (USPS.com) to check your tracking information or contact customer service. Do not use the link provided in the text.
Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure your phone’s operating system and security software are up to date to protect against malware.
Educate Yourself and Others: Share this information with friends and family, especially those who may be less familiar with online scams.

USPS Text FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the USPS text message landscape:

1. How can I verify if a USPS text is legitimate?

The safest way is to independently verify the information on the USPS website (USPS.com). Enter your tracking number and check the status of your package. If the information doesn’t match the text message, it’s likely a scam.

2. What is the official USPS website?

The official USPS website is USPS.com.

3. What should I do if I accidentally clicked on a link in a scam USPS text?

If you clicked a link, immediately run a virus scan on your phone. Change any passwords you may have entered on the website. Monitor your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity. Contact your bank or credit card company if you suspect fraud.

4. How do I report a USPS text scam?

Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) and then file a report with the USPS Inspection Service. You can find information on how to file a report on the USPS website.

5. Will USPS ever ask for my credit card information via text?

No. USPS will never ask for your credit card information via text message. This is a sure sign of a scam.

6. What is Informed Delivery, and how does it relate to USPS texts?

Informed Delivery is a free USPS service that provides you with a digital preview of your mail and packages. While primarily email-based, it can include text notifications if you configure it that way after signing up. You must proactively enroll in Informed Delivery.

7. How can I stop receiving USPS text scams?

Block the sender’s number on your phone. Be cautious about providing your phone number on websites or forms.

8. Is there a specific number that USPS texts come from?

There isn’t one definitive number. Scammers often use spoofed numbers. Focus on the content of the message, not the number it came from.

9. What is “smishing,” and how is it related to USPS scams?

Smishing is a type of phishing attack that uses SMS (text messages) to trick you into revealing personal information. USPS text scams are a prime example of smishing.

10. Can I trust a USPS text that includes my tracking number?

Just because a text includes a valid tracking number doesn’t automatically make it legitimate. Scammers can obtain tracking numbers through various means. Always verify the information on the USPS website.

11. What if I’m unsure if a USPS text is real?

When in doubt, err on the side of caution. Do not click on any links or provide any personal information. Contact USPS directly to verify the information.

12. How often do USPS text scams occur?

USPS text scams are relatively common and ongoing. Scammers constantly adapt their tactics, so it’s essential to stay informed and vigilant.