{"id":193759,"date":"2023-09-29T03:49:00","date_gmt":"2023-09-29T03:49:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=193759"},"modified":"2024-02-10T04:36:57","modified_gmt":"2024-02-10T04:36:57","slug":"usps-suspended-due-to-invalid-recipient-address-scam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/usps-suspended-due-to-invalid-recipient-address-scam\/","title":{"rendered":"Don\u2019t Fall for Fake USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d Scam Stealing Money"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d scam is a new phishing technique aiming to steal sensitive personal information from unsuspecting victims. Scammers are sending fraudulent text messages and emails pretending to be from the United States Postal Service. The messages claim that a package cannot be delivered due to an invalid recipient address. They urge recipients to click on a link to correct their address and pay a small redelivery fee. However, the link directs users to a fake USPS website designed to steal personal and financial information.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1148219976\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309684--placement_360520\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3957935887\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n<p>This article will take an in-depth look at how the \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d phishing scam operates, how to protect yourself if targeted, and ways to avoid falling for similar frauds in the future.<\/p>\n<div id='gallery-1' class='gallery galleryid-193759 gallery-columns-2 gallery-size-full'><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-2-2.jpg'><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"974\" height=\"568\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-2-2.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-2-2.jpg 974w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-2-2-300x175.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 974px) 100vw, 974px\" title=\"\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-1.jpg'><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"974\" height=\"568\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-1.jpg 974w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-1-300x175.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 974px) 100vw, 974px\" title=\"\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-3.jpg'><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"974\" height=\"568\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-3.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-3.jpg 974w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/USPS-Scam-3-300x175.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 974px) 100vw, 974px\" title=\"\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a href='https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Fake-USPS-Text-and-Scam-Message-Package-Delayed-Due-to-Incomplete-Door-Number.jpg'><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"719\" height=\"742\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Fake-USPS-Text-and-Scam-Message-Package-Delayed-Due-to-Incomplete-Door-Number.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"Fake USPS Text and Scam Message Package Delayed Due to Incomplete Door Number\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Fake-USPS-Text-and-Scam-Message-Package-Delayed-Due-to-Incomplete-Door-Number.jpg 719w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Fake-USPS-Text-and-Scam-Message-Package-Delayed-Due-to-Incomplete-Door-Number-291x300.jpg 291w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 719px) 100vw, 719px\" title=\"\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/figure>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4209068397\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309746-ad_309691-placement_360521\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"4456629336\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overview of the USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This scam starts with potential victims receiving a text message or email supposedly from the USPS. The message claims a package cannot be delivered due to an invalid recipient address. Scammers pretend to be from the USPS and typically say something like:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3844857592\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381396-ad_309691-placement_360566\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1471373341\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cYour package is on hold for an invalid recipient address. Fill in the correct address info by the link below.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The message urges victims to click on a link redirecting them to a fake USPS site. The fraudulent site mimics a real USPS page and asks victims to enter updated address information. It also requests a small redelivery fee, typically $0.20 to $0.30.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, unsuspecting users who enter personal data and payment info are at risk of identity theft and financial fraud. The scammers steal sensitive information like names, addresses, credit card numbers, security codes, and more. Data is then used to commit other crimes like opening fraudulent accounts, taking over existing accounts, or selling info on the dark web.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad172464476\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309686-ad_309691-placement_360569\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6935453015\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This scam is essentially a phishing attack targeting innocent victims expecting package deliveries. Phishing uses urgent-sounding messages with links to fake sites impersonating trusted brands. The USPS name and logos are used to make the scam appear legitimate. But real USPS communications would not ask for personal info or payments over text or email.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2269226974\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309747-ad_309691-placement_360587\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9589536513\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How the USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d Scam Works<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers orchestrating this scam are quite strategic in how they target potential victims. Here is a step-by-step overview of how this scam typically works:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Scammers Obtain Victims\u2019 Contact Info<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first step is scammers obtaining a database of names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Info like this is easily found online or purchased on the dark web. Scammers may also use botnets to harvest data from public sites and social networks. Accounts with e-commerce sites can be compromised to steal customer contact info too.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad627866958\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381401-ad_309691-placement_360573\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5315249587\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Scam Texts and Emails Are Sent En Masse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once scammers compile a list of target contacts, they send out scam USPS messages en masse. Text messages come from a local number pretending to be a postal office. Emails spoof the real USPS domain in the sender address. Both contain urgent wording about an undelivered package and a link to the fake site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Fake USPS Site Requests Updated Address and Redelivery Fee<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If recipients click the link, they are taken to a deceiving site mimicking a real USPS page. The site asks users to enter updated address info since the original was \u201cinvalid\u201d. A redelivery fee around $0.20 to $0.30 is also requested, making the page appear like a legit USPS payment portal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Users Input Sensitive Personal and Payment Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tricked into thinking the site is real, many victims start filling in details like:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3618606037\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381404-ad_309691-placement_381406\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8735619847\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Full name<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Home address<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Phone number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Credit card number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Security code<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expiration date<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some even input their Social Security Number, date of birth, or other info requested. Entering any kind of personal data poses serious risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Scammers Steal Information for Financial Fraud and Identity Theft<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once submitted, all user data gets stolen by scammers to commit identity theft and financial fraud. Info like names, addresses, and Social Security Numbers can be used to open fake accounts or take over existing accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stolen credit card details are used to make fraudulent purchases online, resell on the dark web, or create cloned cards. Phone numbers may be targeted with additional smishing attacks or sold to shady telemarketers. The more info obtained, the more ways scammers can financially exploit victims.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1479317818\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360582-ad_309691-placement_360581\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9971336976\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2575868048\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309748-ad_309691-placement_360588\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3906789406\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Identify Fake USPS Emails Related to the \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s important to be able to recognize fraudulent USPS emails used in the \u201cinvalid recipient address\u201d phishing scam. There are several indicators to help discern fake emails from real USPS communications. Learning these email phishing techniques can prevent you from getting scammed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Analyze the Sender\u2019s Email Address<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carefully inspect the email address in the \u201cFrom\u201d field of any USPS email. Legitimate messages will only come from an official usps.com email address:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>usps.com<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>USPS.com<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>notifications@usps.com<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>no-reply@usps.com<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scam USPS emails often spoof or mimic real addresses. Look closely at the sender\u2019s full email address and domain name:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2352136750\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360567-ad_309691-placement_360771\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6224621518\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u274c uspos.com<br \/>\u274c alertsusps@email.com<br \/>\u274c serviceemail@usps-com.net<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fake domains with misspellings or extra words should signal a phishing attempt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Watch for Poor Spelling and Grammatical Errors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Real USPS emails are professionally written with no spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Phishing emails often contain issues like:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2561825184\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360571-ad_309691-placement_360772\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5867729999\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Typpos and mispellings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Missing or misused words<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wrong postal terms like &#8220;postal code&#8221; instead of ZIP CodeTM<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Awkward phrasing and formatting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Messages with multiple issues should be considered highly suspicious. Fraudsters lack the mastery of language real USPS emails have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inspect Hyperlinked Text Carefully<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never click links in unsolicited emails. But hovering over hyperlinked text can reveal phishing tricks. Fake USPS links often use deceptive text that differs from the actual URL destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hyperlinks saying &#8220;USPS Delivery Update&#8221; may actually link to &#8220;freepostalreport.com&#8221; \u2013 a big red flag. Only click links back to usps.com resources.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3616112485\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360576-ad_309691-placement_360773\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6594472392\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Check for Requests for Personal Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The USPS would never ask customers for sensitive information like account numbers, Social Security numbers, or login credentials over email.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Phishing emails try to urgently scare victims into providing personal or financial details. Requests for account updates, package tracking numbers, or payment info signal a scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Verify Any Threats or Warnings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scare tactics are meant to panic recipients into immediate action without thinking. Phishing emails make dubious claims your account is suspended, a package seized, or that you owe postage.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2069009772\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360583-ad_309691-placement_360774\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8849826992\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But USPS would not threaten delivery holds or legal action over email. Verify any warnings directly with USPS customer service before taking action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay vigilant analyzing USPS emails for these common phishing indicators. Report scam messages to usps.gov and delete them immediately. Use caution providing personal data when contacted out of the blue online or over email. Protect yourself from fraud with awareness of phishing techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad1158026628\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_318930-ad_309691-placement_360589\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3818335085\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Spot Fake USPS Text Messages Related to the \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3262080898\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360584-ad_309691-placement_360775\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3952847241\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers also use fraudulent USPS text messages, known as smishing, to conduct the \u201cinvalid recipient address\u201d phishing scam. Be wary of suspicious texts and know how to recognize real USPS communications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Verify the Sender\u2019s Phone Number<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carefully inspect the phone number or short code a text is sent from. Legitimate USPS messages will come from an official short code like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>28777 (USPS Tracking)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>69797 (USPS Notifications)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scam USPS texts often spoof local area codes or use arbitrary short codes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u274c 888-555-1234<br \/>\u274c 75309<br \/>\u274c 39284<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unknown numbers should signal a smishing attempt. Search online to confirm if a short code is truly affiliated with USPS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Watch for Odd Links and Website Addresses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Real USPS texts would never contain links to outside websites. Phishing texts provide links to shady sites engineered to steal your data when entered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hover over any links to inspect the web address. Fake domains with \u201cusps\u201d misspellings like \u201cuspss\u201d should reveal a scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Verify Any Threats and Warnings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Smishing texts make dubious claims of unpaid postage, seized packages, or delivery cancellations. But USPS would not threaten holds on shipments or legal action over text.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inspect texts carefully and confirm any warnings through official USPS customer service before taking action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Check for Requests for Personal Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Much like phishing emails, smishing texts try to trick users into inputting sensitive information like account numbers, Social Security numbers, or login credentials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The USPS would never ask customers for personal or financial details over text. Requests for address updates, package tracking numbers, or payment info signal a scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Watch for Poor Spelling and Grammar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typos, spelling and grammar errors are common in smishing texts from foreign numbers. Real USPS messages are professionally written with no language issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay vigilant against USPS smishing scams by analyzing texts closely for these red flags. Report scam messages to SPAM (7726) and avoid clicking links or providing personal information requested. Use caution with communications from unknown numbers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad81229783\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381388-ad_309691-placement_381390\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3191649120\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to Do If You Are Targeted by This Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you receive a suspicious text or email claiming to be from USPS about an undelivered package, here are important steps to take:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do Not Click Links or Provide Any Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First and foremost, do not click on any links in the message or enter any personal or financial information on linked sites. The links are a trap to a fake portal used to steal data. Remember \u2013 USPS would never request info or payments via text or email.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Report the Scam Message<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Report the scam text or email to USPS by forwarding it to spam@uspis.gov. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Reporting scams helps authorities track down and stop fraudsters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Contact Your Bank<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you did provide credit card information, immediately contact your bank and report the fraudulent charges. Your bank may be able to freeze the card, dispute the charges, and prevent further fraudulent use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reset Online Account Passwords<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also change passwords for any online accounts that use the same username and password combination entered on the fake site. Scammers may leverage credentials to gain access to other accounts. Use strong, unique passwords for every account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Monitor Accounts and Credit Reports<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carefully monitor bank and financial accounts for any suspicious activity, as well as your credit reports for any unauthorized activity. Placing a fraud alert or credit freeze can help protect against identity theft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Beware of Recovery Scams<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be cautious of any call, email, or text claiming they can recover lost money or compromised information. This is likely another scam attempt. Only work directly with your bank or legitimate law enforcement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4218279537\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381392-ad_309691-placement_381395\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2944237110\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Avoid Falling Victim to Similar Scams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While scams are getting more sophisticated, there are ways to avoid falling victim to phishing attacks like the USPS invalid recipient address scam:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Never click links or call numbers in unsolicited messages<\/strong> \u2013 Be skeptical of texts, social media messages, emails, or calls claiming there is a problem with an account or requesting personal information. Calling a number or clicking a link verifies to scammers that they reached a real, active person. Legitimate companies won\u2019t ask for info this way.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Set up multi-factor authentication<\/strong> \u2013 Turn on multi-factor authentication for banking, email, social media, and other online accounts. This adds an extra layer of security beyond just usernames and passwords.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Create strong, unique passwords<\/strong> \u2013 Avoid password reuse by generating complex, unique passwords for each online account using a password manager. Weak, duplicated credentials allow scammers to infiltrate multiple accounts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keep software updated<\/strong> \u2013 Maintain the latest security updates for all devices and software. Updates patch vulnerabilities that scammers exploit to steal data and spread malware.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Be wary of unsolicited calls and texts<\/strong> \u2013 Don\u2019t answer or return calls from unknown numbers. Let unknown numbers go to voicemail. Scammers use robocalls and smishing to find live targets.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Consult legitimate websites or apps<\/strong> \u2013 If you get an urgent request regarding an account, consult the official website or app first. Don\u2019t rely on texts or emails alone. Search for the company\u2019s official contact info to verify legitimacy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Monitor your accounts and credit reports<\/strong> \u2013 Routinely check all financial accounts statements and credit reports for any unusual activity. It\u2019s easier to spot fraudulent activity early by monitoring closely.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h2>Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan<\/h2>\n\n<p>Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with <strong>Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free<\/strong> \u2014 one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.<\/p>\n\n<p>The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Adware<\/strong> \u2014 the cause of those annoying pop-ups<\/li>\n<li><strong>Browser hijackers<\/strong> \u2014 unwanted redirects and changed homepages<\/li>\n<li><strong>Trojans and spyware<\/strong> \u2014 hidden programs stealing your data<\/li>\n<li><strong>Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs)<\/strong> \u2014 software you never asked for<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 <strong>Select your device below<\/strong> \u2014 Windows, Mac, or Android \u2014 then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"su-tabs su-tabs-style-default su-tabs-mobile-stack\" data-active=\"1\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\"><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Windows<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Mac<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Android<\/span><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Windows\">\n\n<h3 id=\"windowsh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Malwarebytes<\/strong> is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows \u2014 and it&#8217;s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes<\/p> <p>Click the button below to download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Windows<\/strong> from the official source. The free version is all you need \u2014 it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.<\/p> <div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\"\/><\/figure> <strong><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/downloads\/MBSetup-076886.076886-consumer.exe\" onclick=\"window.open('https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free');\">DOWNLOAD MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS (FREE)<br \/>\n<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em class=\"small-text-disclaimer\">(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/div><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <strong>Downloads<\/strong> folder and <strong>double-click the MBSetup file<\/strong>. If Windows shows a <strong>User Account Control<\/strong> pop-up, click &#8220;<em>Yes<\/em>&#8221; to allow the installation.<\/p>\n\n \n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"975\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285934\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg 975w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1-300x154.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px\" \/><\/figure>\n \n\n \n  \n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p> \n\n<p>The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \n  <li>\n    <p>Choose where you&#8217;re installing the program \u2014 &#8220;<strong>Personal Computer<\/strong>&#8221; or &#8220;<strong>Work Computer<\/strong>&#8221; \u2014 then click <strong>Next<\/strong>.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"737\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285953\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg 737w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 737px) 100vw, 737px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285937\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg 759w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4-300x198.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>When installation is complete, the &#8220;<strong>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/strong>&#8221; screen will open automatically.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285951\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg 705w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>On the final screen, click <strong>Open Malwarebytes<\/strong> to launch the program.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"749\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285952\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg 749w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Enable &#8220;Scan for Rootkits&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the <strong>Settings<\/strong> gear icon on the left side of the screen.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285942\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the settings menu, find &#8220;<strong>Scan for rootkits<\/strong>&#8221; and click the toggle so it turns blue.\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"841\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285943\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg 841w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 841px) 100vw, 841px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Done? Click &#8220;<strong>Dashboard<\/strong>&#8221; in the left pane to return to the main screen.\n\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start the Scan<\/p> <p>Click the blue <strong>Scan<\/strong> button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"849\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285941\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg 849w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285944\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine the Detected Threats<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, you&#8217;ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found \u2014 malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button to remove all of them at once.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285945\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<p>Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285946\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n  <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Your Computer<\/p>\n  <p>Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click <strong>Yes<\/strong>. Once you&#8217;re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285947\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>When the scan finishes, click <strong>Quarantine<\/strong> to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That&#8217;s it \u2014 your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Run a computer scan with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eset.com\/us\/home\/online-scanner\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ESET Online Scanner<\/a><\/strong><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Malware Removal Assistance for Windows\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/windows-malware-removal-help-support.10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Windows Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Mac\">\n\n<h3 id=\"mach3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Mac<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong> is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss \u2014 adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it&#8217;s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Mac<\/p>\n<p>Click the button below to download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1011lvqrV\/creativeref:1011l100234\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">DOWNLOAD MALWAREBYTES FOR MAC (FREE)<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Open the Malwarebytes setup file<\/p>\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <em>Downloads<\/em> folder and <strong>double-click the setup file<\/strong> to begin the installation.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98734 alignnone\" title=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg\" alt=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" width=\"750\" height=\"424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-300x170.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n<p>The <em>Malwarebytes for Mac Installer<\/em> will guide you through a few quick screens. Click &#8220;<strong>Continue<\/strong>&#8221; and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98735 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Click Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"532\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98736 alignnone\" title=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac for Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98737 alignnone\" title=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg\" alt=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the <em>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/em> screen. Click &#8220;<strong>Get started<\/strong>&#8220;.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Select &#8220;Personal Computer&#8221; or &#8220;Work Computer&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you&#8217;re installing it on. Click either <strong>Personal Computer<\/strong> or <strong>Work Computer<\/strong>, whichever applies.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98740 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg\" alt=\"Select Personal Computer or Work Computer mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"537\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start the Scan<\/p>\n<p>Click the &#8220;<strong>Scan<\/strong>&#8221; button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98733 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Click on Scan button to start a system scan Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98739 alignnone\" title=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan your computer\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg\" alt=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan for malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine the Detected Threats<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, you&#8217;ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button to remove all the threats at once.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98732 alignnone\" title=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg\" alt=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine to remove malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Your Mac<\/p> <p>Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot \u2014 if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you&#8217;re logged back in, your Mac is clean.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98738 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes For Mac requesting to restart computer\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><br \/><\/p> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mac-malware-removal-help-support.183\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/p>\n\n\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Android\">\n\n<h3 id=\"androidh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/h3>\n\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don&#8217;t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.<\/p>\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Android.<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>Malwarebytes for Android<\/strong> by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=org.malwarebytes.antimalware&#038;hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MALWAREBYTES FOR ANDROID DOWNLOAD LINK<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Android)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes for Android on your phone.<\/p>\n<p>In the Google Play Store, tap &#8220;<strong>Install<\/strong>&#8221; to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106940\" title=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg\" alt=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation process has finished, tap &#8220;<strong>Open<\/strong>&#8221; to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106941\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes for Android - Open App\" width=\"292\" height=\"578\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process<\/p>\n<p>When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the <em>Malwarebytes Setup Wizard<\/em> which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options.<br \/>This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106944\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" width=\"292\" height=\"577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;<strong>Got it<\/strong>&#8221; to proceed to the next step.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106945\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on &#8220;<strong>Give permission<\/strong>&#8221; to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106946\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" width=\"292\" height=\"570\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3-154x300.jpg 154w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;Allow&#8221; to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106947\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" width=\"292\" height=\"573\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7-153x300.jpg 153w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/p>\n<p>You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106939\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes fix issue\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>Click on &#8220;<strong>Update database<\/strong>&#8221; to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on &#8220;<strong>Run full scan<\/strong>&#8221; to perform a system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106948\" title=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan on phone\" width=\"291\" height=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg 291w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 291px) 100vw, 291px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106943\" title=\"Malwarebytes scanning phone for malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes scanning Android for Vmalware\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Remove Selected&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the &#8220;<strong>Remove Selected<\/strong>&#8221; button.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106942\" title=\"Tap on the Remove button to get rid of malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Remove malware from your phone\" width=\"760\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg 760w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware-300x237.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart your phone.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<hr \/>\n\n<p>After the scan, tap <strong>Remove Selected<\/strong> to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean \u2014 no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Restore your phone to factory settings by going to <em>Settings &gt; General management &gt; Reset &gt; Factory data reset.<\/em><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mobile-malware-removal-help-support.165\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h3>Stay Protected: Block Ads and Malicious Sites<\/h3>\n\n<p>Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button \u2014 so blocking them at the source is your best defense.<\/p>\n\n<p>We recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>AdGuard<\/strong><\/a>, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.<\/p>\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Download AdGuard and browse safely<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions About the USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This FAQ section provides key information about the USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d phishing scam targeting unsuspecting victims. Learn how to spot this scam and protect yourself from fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d scam involves fraudulent text messages or emails pretending to be from USPS. The messages state a package can\u2019t be delivered due to an invalid recipient address. They provide a link to correct your address and pay a small redelivery fee. However, the link goes to a fake USPS site designed to steal personal and financial information for identity theft and credit card fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does the USPS invalid address scam work?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers send text messages or emails with USPS branding claiming a package can\u2019t be delivered to you due to an invalid address. The message urges you to click a link to correct your address and schedule redelivery by paying a small fee, usually $0.20 to $0.30. But the link goes to a fake website impersonating an official USPS portal to steal your data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are examples of the fake USPS messages for this scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Examples of fake messages used in this scam include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&#8220;USPS: Your package is on hold for an invalid recipient address. To reschedule delivery please click here.&#8221;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;Attention: We were unable to deliver your package due to an incorrect address. Please verify your information here.&#8221;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;USPS Delivery Failed &#8211; The address entered for your package delivery is invalid. Please update your address here.&#8221;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens if you click the link in the fake USPS messages?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The link in the fake USPS messages directs victims to a phishing website pretending to be a real USPS portal. The site requests users enter personal info like your name, address, phone number, credit card details and more under the guise of collecting updated address data and a redelivery fee payment. In reality, all data entered is stolen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can you tell if a USPS text or email is fake?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To identify fake USPS communications:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Inspect the sender\u2019s address &#8211; Real USPS emails come from usps.com addresses only.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check for typos &amp; grammatical errors &#8211; USPS messages are professional with no mistakes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not click links &#8211; USPS never sends texts\/emails with links to account pages.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hover over links to inspect the URL &#8211; Fake links often have misspelled or forged domains.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Call USPS directly if concerned about a message.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should you do if you get a fake USPS message?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you receive a suspicious USPS text or email:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do not click any links or provide personal or payment information.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report the scam message by forwarding it to spam@uspis.gov.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you entered payment info, call your bank immediately to freeze your card and dispute the charges.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change passwords on any accounts that may have been compromised.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watch for signs of identity theft or account breaches.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can you protect yourself from the invalid recipient address scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To avoid falling for this scam:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Never click links or call numbers in suspicious texts or emails.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use multi-factor authentication for online accounts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create strong, unique passwords for all accounts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep software updated to patch vulnerabilities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consult official sites if contacted about your account.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carefully monitor financial accounts and credit reports.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is phishing and smishing?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Phishing is when scammers use fraudulent emails, sites, or forms to steal personal information. Smishing is phishing conducted over SMS text messaging. The invalid recipient scam uses both tactics to bait victims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should you do if you already fell for this scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you provided your information:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Contact banks to freeze\/cancel cards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Place fraud alert on credit reports and review for any suspicious activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reset passwords on compromised accounts and enable two-factor authentication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watch out for recovery scams contacting you to prevent more loss.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can I report this scam or cybercrime?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To report this scam, cybercrime, or identity theft:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>File a complaint with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report ID theft to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact your state attorney general office to file a complaint.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Notify the major credit bureaus and your banks of any fraud.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>File a report with your local law enforcement agency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stay vigilant for new variations on the USPS invalid recipient address scam trying to phish for personal data. Perform online safety best practices to avoid exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bottom Line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics and the USPS invalid recipient address is one of their latest ploys. This scam leverages fake postal service messages to trick unsuspecting targets into providing personal and financial data. This information is then used for identity theft and financial fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best way to avoid this scam is being aware of the tactics, verifying message legitimacy, and refraining from providing info or clicking links in unsolicited communications. Protect all accounts with strong passwords and multi-factor authentication. Report any scam messages and suspicious activity to stop these fraudsters in their tracks. Stay vigilant against new schemes aiming to steal personal data and assets. Don&#8217;t let scammers packages promises lure you into divulging sensitive information.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d scam is a new phishing technique aiming to steal sensitive personal information from unsuspecting victims. Scammers are sending fraudulent text messages and emails pretending to be from the United States &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"Don\u2019t Fall for Fake USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d Scam Stealing Money\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/usps-suspended-due-to-invalid-recipient-address-scam\/#more-193759\" aria-label=\"Read more about Don\u2019t Fall for Fake USPS \u201cInvalid Recipient Address\u201d Scam Stealing Money\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":193760,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-193759","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-scam-reports","masonry-post","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/193759","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/50"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=193759"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/193759\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/193760"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=193759"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=193759"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=193759"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}