Does USPS Message You? Unveiling the Truth About USPS Text and Email Alerts

The short answer is yes, the United States Postal Service (USPS) does message you, but with important caveats. These messages primarily come in the form of email and text (SMS) alerts, related to tracking packages, providing delivery updates, and notifying you of changes to your service. However, understanding when and how USPS messages you is crucial to avoid scams and ensure you’re receiving legitimate information.

Deciphering USPS Communication: Email and Text Alerts Explained

USPS utilizes both email and SMS text messaging to keep you informed about your mail and packages. Let’s break down the common scenarios where you might receive these messages:

• Package Tracking Updates: This is the most frequent type of USPS communication. After purchasing postage online, or when a shipper provides your contact information, you can opt-in to receive tracking updates via email and/or text. These alerts will notify you of significant events such as:

  • Package acceptance
  • Arrival at a USPS facility
  • Out for delivery status
  • Delivery confirmation

• Informed Delivery: USPS’s Informed Delivery service allows you to preview grayscale images of the exterior of letter-sized mailpieces and track packages in one convenient dashboard. To use Informed Delivery, you must sign up for a free account on the USPS website. Once enrolled, you’ll receive a daily email digest containing these images.

• Redelivery Notifications: If a delivery attempt fails, USPS may send you an email or text message informing you of the missed delivery and providing instructions on how to schedule a redelivery or pick up your package.

• Service Disruptions: In cases of weather events, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances that impact mail delivery, USPS may send out alerts informing customers of potential delays or service disruptions in specific areas.

Recognizing Legitimate USPS Messages: Avoiding Scams

While USPS does message you, it’s essential to be vigilant against scams. Cybercriminals frequently impersonate USPS to trick people into giving up personal or financial information. Here’s how to spot a fake message:

• Unexpected Requests for Payment: This is the biggest red flag. USPS will NEVER ask you to pay for redelivery or customs fees via text message or email. Legitimate fees are always paid directly on the USPS website or at a physical post office.

• Suspicious Links: Be extremely cautious about clicking any links in unsolicited emails or texts. Hover over the link (without clicking) to see the actual URL. Legitimate USPS links will always lead to usps.com. Scammers often use misspelled domains or shortened URLs to disguise their true destination.

• Generic Greetings: Scam emails and texts often start with generic greetings like “Dear Customer” or “Important Notice.” Legitimate USPS communications will typically include your name or tracking number.

• Poor Grammar and Spelling: Look for grammatical errors and typos. Official USPS communications are professionally written and proofread.

• Requests for Personal Information: Be wary of any message that asks you to provide sensitive personal information such as your Social Security number, bank account details, or credit card information. USPS will not request this information through unsolicited emails or texts.

• Urgent Language: Scammers often use urgent language to pressure you into acting quickly without thinking. Phrases like “Immediate action required” or “Your package will be returned if you don’t pay now” should raise a red flag.

If you suspect a message is fraudulent, do not click any links, provide any information, or respond to the sender. Report the suspicious email or text message to the USPS Inspection Service.

Managing Your USPS Communication Preferences

You have control over the types of messages you receive from USPS. Here’s how to manage your preferences:

• Informed Delivery Settings: Log into your Informed Delivery account on the USPS website to customize your notification preferences. You can choose to receive daily digests or opt-out of the service altogether.

• Tracking Updates: When tracking a package on the USPS website, you can specify whether you want to receive updates via email or text. You can also unsubscribe from these updates at any time by clicking the “unsubscribe” link in the email or replying “STOP” to the text message.

• USPS Account Settings: If you have a USPS account, you can manage your communication preferences in your account settings.

USPS FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about USPS messaging to further clarify the process and keep you safe:

1. How do I sign up for USPS text alerts?

When you track a package on the USPS website (usps.com), you’ll be prompted to enter your email address and/or phone number to receive tracking updates. Simply check the box to opt-in for text alerts. The shipper may also provide USPS with your contact information for delivery notifications.

2. Is Informed Delivery free?

Yes, Informed Delivery is a free service offered by USPS. However, you need to create an account on the USPS website and verify your identity to enroll.

3. I received a text saying my package has a customs fee due. Is this legitimate?

No, this is almost certainly a scam. USPS will never ask you to pay customs fees via text message. Customs fees are typically collected at the time of delivery or through the official USPS website. Never click on links or provide payment information in response to such a text.

4. How do I report a USPS scam?

Report suspicious emails or text messages to the USPS Inspection Service at https://www.uspis.gov/. You can also forward suspicious emails to spam@uspis.gov.

5. Can I stop receiving USPS text messages?

Yes, you can stop receiving USPS text messages by replying “STOP” to the message. This will unsubscribe you from all future text alerts related to that specific tracking number.

6. What does a legitimate USPS tracking text message look like?

A legitimate USPS tracking text message will typically include the tracking number, a brief update on the package’s status (e.g., “Out for Delivery”), and a link to the USPS website for more details. It will NOT ask for payment or personal information.

7. I accidentally clicked on a suspicious link in a USPS text. What should I do?

If you accidentally clicked on a suspicious link, do not enter any personal or financial information. Run a full scan of your device with a reputable antivirus program. If you think your personal information may have been compromised, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports.

8. Does USPS ever call customers directly?

USPS rarely calls customers directly, especially for unsolicited reasons. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from USPS and asking for personal or financial information, be very cautious. It’s best to hang up and contact USPS directly through their official website or customer service line to verify the call’s legitimacy.

9. How can I verify if an email is really from USPS?

Check the sender’s email address. Legitimate USPS emails will come from an email address ending in @usps.gov. Be wary of emails from free email providers like Gmail or Yahoo that claim to be from USPS. Also, look for the other warning signs of a scam mentioned above, such as requests for payment, suspicious links, and poor grammar.

10. Can I track my package without signing up for text or email alerts?

Yes, you can track your package directly on the USPS website (usps.com) by entering the tracking number. You don’t need to sign up for text or email alerts to track your package.

11. What is the difference between USPS text alerts and Informed Delivery?

USPS text alerts provide updates on the status of a specific package. Informed Delivery provides daily previews of letter-sized mailpieces and package tracking in a single dashboard. Informed Delivery requires a separate signup, while text alerts can be activated per tracking number.

12. If I move, will USPS automatically update my text alert settings?

No, USPS will not automatically update your text alert settings when you move. You will need to update your contact information and preferences for each tracking number or service you are using. You can also file a change-of-address form with USPS, which can help forward mail to your new address.

By staying informed and exercising caution, you can safely utilize USPS messaging services and avoid falling victim to scams. Remember, vigilance is key to protecting yourself and your information in the digital age.