If you get an unsolicited text about a package delivery issue, it's probably not from the U.S. Postal Service.
Guardio, a software company, reported that the Postal Service is often imitated in phishing scams. Last month, USPS warned customers about mobile texts with strange web links needing a response.
"If you didn't sign up for USPS tracking for a specific package, don’t click the link! It’s a scam called smishing," the agency said.
Scammers tell customers their package won’t be delivered due to an incomplete address, directing them to a link.
Other common lures include "your account has been suspended" and "there is a package waiting for you at the Post Office."
These deceptive texts aim to steal personal information like usernames, passwords, and Social Security numbers.
Karin Zilberstein, Guardio’s VP of Product, said these scams result from the rise in online shopping.
"As more people order online, hackers exploit this trend with new scams," Zilberstein told FOX Business.
Most people expecting a package may fall for the scam and give away personal details. USPS only uses 5-digit short codes for SMS notifications and will not send unsolicited texts or emails.
Messages from USPS won’t contain links and only come after a customer requests the service with a tracking number. Customers who suspect a scam text should report it and check USPS.com for tracking details.
"The Postal Inspection Service investigates crimes against USPS, its employees, and customers and promotes crime prevention," a USPS spokesperson told FOX Business.