Exposing the USPS Redelivery Payment Scam Stealing Data

A new phishing scam has emerged that preys on expectations of pending packages and dupes victims into paying fake USPS redelivery fees. This expansive guide will uncover everything you need to know about how this scam works, common ploys to watch for, and how to keep yourself protected.

Overview of the Scam

This scam typically starts with an email, text message, or phone call pretending to come from the US Postal Service. The message claims a package intended for you requires redelivery due to an incorrect address, missed attempt, or other delivery problem.

You are provided with a tracking number and urged to click on a link or call a number to schedule redelivery and pay any associated fees. However, the link and number direct to fraudulent USPS sites and call centers seeking to steal entered personal and financial information.

Once your name, date of birth, account details, or other data is harvested, scammers steal identities, make illicit purchases, or sell the information on the black market. Many victims have reported stolen funds, compromised accounts, and nightmare struggles with identity recovery after falling for this scam.

How the Scam Works

This scam strategically deceives victims using the following deceptive tactics:

Crafting Fraudulent Messages

Scammers first fabricate SMS texts, emails, and phone scripts impersonating authentic USPS communications about missed deliveries. These specify a fake tracking number and claim redelivery must be scheduled and paid for online or over the phone.

The messages mimic real USPS redelivery formats and language. Email subjects state things like “USPS Delivery Attempt Failed,” “Schedule Redelivery of Your Package,” or “Action Required to Get Your Package.”

Including Realistic Tracking Numbers

Some messages include fake but convincing-looking USPS tracking numbers that victims can enter on the USPS website, showing a real package in transit.

Seeing real tracking results lends legitimacy to the alerts, so users trust the instructions to schedule redelivery by clicking the provided link without hesitation. In reality, the tracking numbers are fabricated.

Providing Urgent Call-to-Action

Notifications emphasize acting quickly to arrange redelivery before the package is returned to the sender. The urgency aims to prompt action before users notice any inconsistencies.

Threats of fees for failed delivery may also be cited to scare victims into compliance. These high-pressure tactics play on panic and fear.

Directing Victims to Phony Sites and Numbers

Links and phone numbers within the alerts appear to be direct to the genuine USPS at first glance. However, they actually route to sophisticated fake USPS websites and call centers controlled by scammers.

Both the fraudulent sites and call agents closely imitate the real USPS while making elaborate redelivery scheduling and payment processes seem compulsory. But it’s all a scam.

Collecting and Stealing Personal and Financial Data

To “schedule redelivery and pay fees,” the spoofed USPS sites and call agents prompt victims to enter personal identifiers like name, birth date, social security number, driver’s license details, address, phone number, and credit card or banking data.

In reality, USPS does not charge fees for redelivery attempts. Scammers steal all submitted information to commit financial fraud. Some fake sites also contain malware that infects users’ devices.

Exploiting Stolen Identities and Accounts

With the acquired details, scammers can easily engage in identity theft such as:

• Opening fake credit cards or accounts
• Filing phony tax returns for refunds
• Stealing retirement account funds
• Selling information bundles on the black market
• Draining bank accounts using account numbers

Scammers may also use compromised usernames and passwords to directly access existing accounts and assets. This all leaves victims dealing with severe financial and identity devastation.

Pursuing Secondary Scams and Fraud

Scammers often follow initial cons with additional scams against the same victims:

• Contacting victims posing as USPS investigators offering to recover stolen funds or reverse identity theft for an upfront fee they pocket.
• Calling while impersonating bank reps to “assist” with fraud claims while actually tricking victims into allowing account access.
• Sending links for “security updates” that actually contain malware granting access to devices and networks.

These supplement scams lead to more stolen money, data, and misery for victims already reeling from previous fraud.

What to Do If You’re a Victim

If you provided any sensitive information or paid any redelivery fees, take these steps right away:

• Contact banks to halt charges on compromised accounts and cards. Monitor statements closely for signs of fraudulent use of funds and data.
• Place 90-day fraud alerts on all credit files to make opening new illicit lines of credit more challenging. Continuously check credit reports as well.
• Change all account passwords, and security questions, and enable two-factor authentication everywhere possible.
• File detailed reports with the real USPS through their postal inspector website and with the FTC.
• Ignore any supposed offers of help recovering lost money or restoring identity in exchange for advanced fees. These invariably indicate follow-up scams.

Red Flags to Spot This Scam

While this scam can look incredibly convincing, these tips can help expose it:

• Messages urging you to pay redelivery fees that USPS would never actually require.
• Links routing to mismatched domains outside of usps.com.
• Fake sites lacking security certificates and the “HTTPS” designation.
• Requests for unnecessary personal details beyond just address and payment info.
• Caller IDs on scam calls displaying spoofed USPS numbers.
• Follow-up contacts from “USPS” offering aid reversing damages for a fee.

How to Avoid This Scam

Protect yourself from the USPS redelivery payment scam using these key precautions:

• Never click links or call numbers within unsolicited messages – independently find official USPS contacts.
• Verify supposed delivery issues and redelivery options directly with USPS using confirmed channels before taking action.
• Analyze sites carefully for valid domains, security certificates, and USPS branding.
• Do not disclose personal or financial data through unverified sites or calls.
• Keep software updated to detect fraudulent sites attempting malware installation.
• Review USPS scam awareness resources to stay on top of the latest techniques targeting customers.
• Use strong unique passwords and two-factor authentication to secure online accounts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

For additional facts about the fake USPS redelivery scam see these FAQs:

Are scammers able to spoof USPS tracking numbers?

Scammers can generate fake but valid-looking tracking numbers. However, they will either show no results or incorrect details when checked on USPS.com. Genuine tracking numbers match real in-transit packages when searched.

Why do scammers ask for credit card information?

Beyond using card numbers to make purchases, the card security code and expiration date allows scammers to commit identity theft. USPS would never contact you requesting financial account details.

Can fake USPS sites be detected through web browsers?

Sometimes. Current web browsers flag known fraudulent sites. However, scam sites can still slip through. You need to manually inspect sites for valid official domains and security certificates yourself before entering info.

Should I avoid clicking links on my mobile device?

Yes, extra caution should be used when clicking links on mobile devices. Fake sites can detect mobile users and send them to different scam sites optimized for smaller screens making them harder to analyze.

Can my information be stolen simply by visiting a scam site?

Possibly – some fraudulent sites can install malware and steal data simply via users visiting the page, even if no forms are completed. Having updated security software that runs frequent scans can detect these threats.

If scammed, how long do the ramifications typically last?

Stolen personal information can be used months or even years later for identity theft. Repairing compromised accounts and credit histories is a lengthy process. Maintain vigilance indefinitely once scammed, as damage can always re-emerge.

In Conclusion

This scam deceives recipients into paying fake USPS redelivery fees by spoofing legitimate notifications. However, understanding the common tricks these scammers use makes it easier to detect fraudulent communications and sites. Scrutinize all supposed USPS alerts thoroughly, and never provide information or payment without verifying legitimacy first through independent contact. Exercising skepticism protects you from having your identity and finances stolen.