Beware Of “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” Scam

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Written by: Thomas Orsolya

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Have you received an email or text claiming a USPS delivery failed because they don’t know who lives at your address? This viral scam aims to steal identities by phishing for personal information. But armed with awareness, you can avoid becoming a victim.

This article will break down exactly how the “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” phishing tactic works. You’ll learn how to spot the telltale signs it’s not a real USPS notification. Plus, simple tips to protect yourself from getting hooked by this crafty scheme targeting online shoppers. Don’t let scammers intercept your personal data through this sly trap – read on to immunize yourself.

USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown

Here’s How Scammers Try to Dupe You with Fake “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” Messages

This scam typically starts with an email or SMS posing as an alert from USPS. The subject line will state something like:

“USPS Delivery Attempt Failed – Addressee Unknown”

The message claims USPS tried but failed to deliver a package to your address because the addressee is unknown. It will include a phony USPS tracking number.

A link is provided to “schedule redelivery” of the supposedly missed package. But it directs to a fake site impersonating the real USPS site.

This is where the phishing begins. On the fraudulent site, you’re prompted to enter personal details to “verify your identity” and get the fictional missed delivery sent again.

In reality, no package exists. The scammers don’t have your address or tracking info. Their only goal is to steal the sensitive data people enter on the phishing site.

Why “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” Scam Targets Online Shoppers

This scam targets anyone who orders packages online regularly. With so much commerce moving to the web, more people get deliveries shipped to their home address daily.

When you’re anxiously waiting on an order, a notification about delivery issues makes you more inclined to click without thinking. Scammers leverage the anticipation of waiting for something you bought.

By spoofing messages to look like real USPS alerts, the scam seems credible. But it’s just a devious trap for eliciting personal information.

5 Ways to Detect the “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” Scam

While designed to mimic USPS, a close look reveals red flags:

1. Generic greetings – Real USPS messages address you by name. Scams use “Dear customer”.

2. Suspicious sender details – Emails come from non-official addresses. Check senders carefully.

3. Bad grammar/spelling – Phishing messages often contain typos or awkward phrases.

4. Fake tracking number – Numbers in scams won’t match real packages or details on USPS.com.

5. Sketchy links – Check where links redirect. They should go to official USPS site.

Don’t Become a Victim – How to Avoid the “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” Scam

Here are tips to avoid getting hooked by this phishing tactic:

  • Verify senders – Double check emails/texts claiming USPS notifications come from a valid usps.gov address or phone #.
  • Avoid clicking – Go directly to USPS.com if you get a delivery failure message. Don’t click links.
  • Confirm tracking #s – Copy numbers into USPS site to validate. Fake ones won’t return real package results.
  • Check link destinations – Hover over links to inspect where they really direct. It should be USPS.com.
  • Never enter personal information – Don’t provide data on third-party sites you accessed via sketchy links.
  • Use multi-factor authentication – Strengthen security on your email and USPS accounts.
  • Keep software updated – Current programs better detect phishing links and disable them.

Steps to Take if You Fell for the “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” Scam

If you entered information on a phishing site, act fast:

  • Change passwords – Update any breached account credentials right away. Enable two-factor authentication if available.
  • Contact banks/credit companies – Ask them to monitor for and block fraudulent charges. Cancel compromised cards.
  • Place fraud alerts – Alert credit agencies to monitor your credit reports for signs of identity theft.
  • Report to authorities – File complaints with the FTC, USPIS, and local law enforcement to aid investigations.
  • Take down phishing sites – Contact web hosts and registrars to report fake sites impersonating USPS.
  • Document details – Record scam website, dates, losses, and steps taken in case an identity theft case must be opened.

Don’t Let Scammers Intercept Your Personal Data – Avoid This “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” Scam

This scam leverages a universal vulnerability: letting your guard down when a message seems to come from a trusted source. By mimicking USPS alerts, phishers play on people’s anticipation about awaiting packages.

But with vigilance, you can protect yourself. Apply the tips outlined here to identify and avoid this scam. Report any suspected phishing messages to USPS directly. And never provide sensitive information to third-party sites you didn’t directly navigate to yourself.

Staying one step ahead of increasingly crafty phishing tactics takes caution. But a little skepticism goes a long way in shielding you from getting hooked by this “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” trap. Don’t let scammers pilfer your personal data through this clever social engineering scheme.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” scam?

A phishing scam sending emails/texts pretending a USPS delivery failed because your address is unknown. Seeks personal info.

Does USPS really notify people of failed deliveries?

Yes, but only through official USPS channels – not third party links/sites.

Are the tracking numbers in the phishing messages real?

No, they are completely fabricated. Fake USPS tracking numbers won’t return results.

What do scammers do with the info entered on phishing sites?

They use it for identity theft – opening accounts/lines of credit in your name.

What should I do if I entered info on a “USPS Delivery Failed, Addressee Unknown” phishing site?

Alert banks/credit companies, place fraud alerts on your credit, report to authorities like USPIS.

Let me know if you would like me to modify or expand this revised version in any way. I’m happy to optimize the article further for the target keywords.

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.

    warning sign

    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.

    lock sign

    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.

    cursor sign

    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.

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