93001109246000000113602978 USPS Package Scam

If you have received a text message or an email from the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) with the tracking number 93001109246000000113602978, you might want to think twice before clicking on any links. This tracking number is legit, but it seems it is being re-used by scammers who operate fake online stores and trick customers into believing that they have shipped their orders, when they actually did not.

Scam

What is the 93001109246000000113602978 USPS Package Scam?

The 93001109246000000113602978 USPS Package Scam is a phishing scheme that involves sending fake delivery notifications to potential victims, claiming that they have a package waiting for them from USPS. The message includes a link to track the package, which leads to a fraudulent website that asks for personal and financial information.

The scammers behind this scam can ship a cheap item via USPS to themselves or to a random address in the same area as their target. When they collect the item, they retain the tracking number and send it to their customers as proof of shipment. When the customer who paid for an item complains that they have not received it and opens a dispute with PayPal or other payment processors, they send them the used tracking number, which shows an item was delivered.

How the Scam Works

The scam works by exploiting a loophole in the USPS tracking system. When someone uses the USPS website to search for a tracking number, it shows the item or package has been delivered to an area, but it does not show the exact address, due to privacy concerns. This makes it virtually impossible to know for sure whether the customer actually received his/her item.

The scammers can also create fake websites that mimic the official USPS website and ask for login credentials or payment details to view the delivery status or to reschedule a delivery. These websites can look very convincing and use logos and graphics from the real USPS site. However, they are designed to steal personal and financial information from unsuspecting users.

How to Avoid the Scam

If you receive a text message or an email from USPS with the tracking number 93001109246000000113602978, do not click on any links or provide any information. Instead, you should:

  • Verify the sender’s phone number or email address. If it does not match the official USPS contact details, it is likely a scam.
  • Check the tracking number on the official USPS website (https://tools.usps.com/go/TrackConfirmAction_input) or call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) to confirm its validity and status.
  • Report the scam message to USPS by forwarding it to spam@uspis.gov or by contacting your local Postal Inspection Service office.
  • Contact your bank or credit card company if you have already provided any payment information and ask them to cancel any unauthorized transactions.
  • Change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your online accounts if you have already provided any login credentials.

Conclusion

The 93001109246000000113602978 USPS Package Scam is a phishing attack that targets individuals through text messages or emails, claiming that they have a package waiting for them from USPS. The message includes a link to track the package, which leads to a fraudulent website that asks for personal and financial information.

The scammers behind this scam can ship a cheap item via USPS to themselves or to a random address in the same area as their target. When they collect the item, they retain the tracking number and send it to their customers as proof of shipment. When the customer who paid for an item complains that they have not received it and opens a dispute with PayPal or other payment processors, they send them the used tracking number, which shows an item was delivered.

To avoid falling victim to this scam, you should verify the sender’s phone number or email address, check the tracking number on the official USPS website or call 1-800-ASK-USPS, report the scam message to USPS by forwarding it to spam@uspis.gov or by contacting your local Postal Inspection Service office, contact your bank or credit card company if you have already provided any payment information and ask them to cancel any unauthorized transactions, and change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your online accounts if you have already provided any login credentials.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

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    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

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    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

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    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.