Will USPS Send You a Text? Unraveling the Mystery of USPS Text Messages

Yes, the USPS does send text messages, but with significant caveats. While the United States Postal Service is increasingly leveraging technology to enhance customer experience, they only send texts in specific, predefined scenarios. Understanding these situations, and more importantly, knowing how to identify fraudulent texts pretending to be from the USPS, is crucial in today’s digital landscape. This article will demystify the USPS texting landscape and equip you with the knowledge to protect yourself from scams.

Understanding Legitimate USPS Text Messages

The USPS understands the value of communicating digitally. However, their approach is very cautious due to rampant phishing scams. Here are some instances where you might receive a legitimate text:

• Informed Delivery Updates: If you’ve signed up for Informed Delivery, the USPS’s free service, you may receive text notifications regarding the arrival of mailpieces and packages. These texts usually contain summaries of your mail or package tracking information.
• Package Tracking Updates: When you request tracking updates via text by using the tracking number on USPS.com, the system will respond with tracking information.
• Account Verification (Rare): In rare cases, particularly when setting up or making changes to your USPS online account, you may receive a text for two-factor authentication or identity verification. This is more common with email, but text verification can occur.
• USPS Marketing Campaigns: The USPS may text users with ongoing deals and discounts. Be wary to make sure these come from a valid USPS number.

Key Takeaway: Legitimate USPS texts are always connected to a service you’ve actively requested, such as Informed Delivery or a tracking update.

Identifying USPS Text Scams: Red Flags to Watch Out For

Unfortunately, the USPS brand is frequently exploited by scammers. Recognizing the warning signs is your first line of defense. Here are some common red flags:

• Requests for Personal Information: The USPS will never ask for your social security number, bank account details, or credit card information via text message. Period. Any text requesting this information is a scam.
• Urgency and Threats: Scammers often use a sense of urgency or fear to pressure you into acting without thinking. Watch out for phrases like “Your package is being held,” “Immediate action required,” or “Your account will be suspended.”
• Suspicious Links: Be extremely cautious about clicking on links in unsolicited text messages. These links can lead to phishing websites designed to steal your information or download malware onto your device. Always verify the URL before clicking. Legitimate USPS websites will always end with “.usps.com.”
• Unexpected Text Messages: If you haven’t signed up for Informed Delivery or requested a tracking update, an unsolicited text message claiming to be from the USPS is highly suspicious.
• Grammatical Errors and Typos: Scammers often make grammatical errors or have typos in their messages. Legitimate USPS communications are professionally written and proofread.
• Generic Greetings: Look out for texts that use generic greetings such as “Dear Customer” or “Hello Valued User,” rather than your name.
• Requests for Payment to Release a Package: The USPS never asks for payment via text to release a package. Any text saying you need to pay additional shipping or customs fees to receive your package is a scam.

Crucial Tip: When in doubt, do not click on any links or provide any personal information. Instead, visit the official USPS website (usps.com) directly or contact USPS customer service to verify the information.

How to Report USPS Text Scams

If you receive a suspicious text message claiming to be from the USPS, report it immediately:

1. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM): This helps your mobile carrier identify and block similar scams.
2. Report the scam to the USPS Inspection Service: Visit the USPS Inspection Service website (postalinspectors.uspis.gov) and file a report. They are the law enforcement arm of the USPS and investigate postal-related crimes.
3. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC collects data on scams and uses it to pursue legal action against scammers.

FAQs about USPS Text Messages

Here are some frequently asked questions about USPS text messages:

1. Is Informed Delivery free?

Yes, Informed Delivery is a free service offered by the USPS. You won’t be charged for signing up or receiving email or text notifications.

2. How do I sign up for Informed Delivery?

You can sign up for Informed Delivery on the USPS website (usps.com). You’ll need to create a USPS account and verify your address.

3. What information does Informed Delivery provide?

Informed Delivery provides digital previews of your incoming mail, including grayscale images of the outside of your letter-sized mailpieces. You’ll also receive tracking updates for packages.

4. Can I track a package without signing up for Informed Delivery?

Yes, you can track a package on the USPS website (usps.com) by entering the tracking number in the designated field. You can also request to receive tracking updates via text on the same page.

5. I received a text saying I owe money for postage. Is this legitimate?

No, this is almost certainly a scam. The USPS does not request payment for postage or customs fees via text message. If you are unsure, check the tracking number on the USPS website to confirm the status of your package.

6. How can I tell if a USPS website is legitimate?

Always ensure that the website address is “usps.com.” Look for the HTTPS security protocol in the address bar (the padlock icon), indicating a secure connection.

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

If you clicked on a suspicious link, change your passwords immediately for any accounts you may have entered on the website. Run a malware scan on your device and monitor your financial accounts for any unauthorized activity. Contact your bank or credit card company if you suspect fraud.

8. Can I block a phone number that sent me a spam text?

Yes, you can block the phone number on your smartphone. This will prevent future text messages from that number.

9. What if I accidentally provided my credit card information in response to a fake USPS text?

Immediately contact your bank or credit card company to report the fraud and request a new card. They can help you prevent unauthorized charges.

10. I received a text saying my package is being held due to an incorrect address. What should I do?

Do not click on any links or provide any personal information. Instead, visit the USPS website (usps.com) and enter your tracking number to check the status of your package. If there’s an issue with your address, contact USPS customer service directly.

11. Why is the USPS being targeted by scammers?

The USPS is a trusted brand, making it an attractive target for scammers. They exploit the familiarity and reliance people have on the postal service to trick them into providing personal information or money.

12. Are there any other government agencies that scammers impersonate?

Yes, scammers frequently impersonate other government agencies, such as the IRS, Social Security Administration, and the FBI. Be vigilant and apply the same principles of caution to any unsolicited communication claiming to be from a government agency.

By staying informed and remaining vigilant, you can protect yourself from USPS text scams and ensure a safer online experience. Remember, when in doubt, verify!