Online shopping is super popular and a big business. People everywhere use it for all kinds of things, even waiting a long time for deliveries. But watch out for scammers who trick you by text. If you got a text scam like US9514961195221, don't panic. Read on to learn what to do next to protect your money.
What is actually a Text Message Scam?
A Text Message Scam is when someone tries to trick you using text messages. A text message scam, also known as "smishing," is when scammers send fake messages pretending to be from a trusted source like the USPS. They trick people into clicking on a link that takes them to a fake website. The website looks real but it's actually set up to steal personal information like names, addresses, passwords, and credit card details. Scammers use this info to steal money without the victims knowing.
“US9514961195221” scam example
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Recently many users have reported receiving text messages from what appears to be the United States Postal Service telling them that there has been a problem with delivering their order. The message claims that in order to receive their package, they will need to provide some more information about themselves, so their parcel can be redelivered and reach their home in time.
The tracking number, US9514961195221, written on the message is not real.
The text message is written in a way that makes it seem very urgent, making people feel like they need to solve this serious problem right away. As a result, many people might click on the link without thinking, only to end up on a fake USPS website. The fake website may seem real at first glance, using the same logo and design as the real USPS site. But if you look closely, you'll see some differences that show it's not the real deal.
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Once you visit a website, it may ask for personal and credit card information to pay for redelivery. Be careful, as this information could be sold to criminals and used for identity fraud or fraudulent purchases. Sometimes, a message may tell you to call a specific number to resolve an issue, but scammers may trick you into paying for fake services or installing a harmful tool on your computer. Remember, if scammers get into your computer, they can install dangerous software that can steal your personal data and compromise your sensitive information.
In this scam, fraudsters are pretending to be USPS, a trusted government agency. This makes people believe that their personal information will be safe. As a result, scammers can easily trick people into giving them money.
What should I do to avoid US9514961195221 text scam?
Avoiding a text scam like the US9514961195221 is all about paying attention. Here are some things to watch out for when you get a suspicious text message.
Name in Text
If you get a text starting with "user" or "customer" it might be fake. Companies usually know your full name when you sign up, so they should use it in messages. It's not definite proof of a scam, but it could be a red flag, so be careful.
Grammar Errors
Professional organizations such as USPS have a lot of employees who work very carefully to provide their service. If you receive a message from a trusted source that has mistakes like bad grammar and spelling errors, it could be a sign of a scam. Make sure to double-check any messages you get to avoid falling for a scammer's quick mistakes.
Tracking ID
The tracking number US9514961195221 has been reported as suspicious by previous victims. Any message with this number is likely a scam and should not be trusted. Scammers may use fake tracking numbers to trick people. To check if a tracking number is fake, visit USPS tracker tool at “https://tools.usps.com/go/TrackConfirmAction_input” and enter the suspicious number. If it is invalid, a message saying “Status Not Available” will show up.
Short Links
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Scammers trick people by sending fake links that claim to solve their problems. These links can take you to fake websites that look real. Even if you don't give any information after clicking the link, your device might still get malware like trojan horses or spyware. To stay safe, don't click on links. Instead, go directly to the website and find what you need. This way, you know it's real. If you have any problems, call a customer service representative for help right away.
Emotional Attack
Scammers use text messages that make you feel scared or rushed to trick you into responding quickly without thinking. They try to make you believe you've done something wrong and need to fix it right away to avoid a big problem. If you get a text with words like "urgent" or "hurry", it's a good idea to double-check the message before doing anything. Taking a moment to think first can help you make the right decision and avoid falling for a scam.
Our Advice
Text message scams happen a lot, making it likely that you might encounter one. If you think a text looks fake, follow these steps to protect your personal information and money.
- Don't click on any links.
- Delete the message from your Inbox and Recently Deleted folder.
- Block the phone number.
- Check for any malware on your phone.
- Update your phone's software for security.
- Report the scam to USPS by emailing “spam@uspis.gov” with a screenshot of the message and the sender's number, to help prevent others from being tricked.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Does USPS charge for redelivery?
Answer: No, USPS does not charge any fee for redelivery.
2. How long will USPS hold a package?
Answer: If the item has not been picked up within 5 days (3 days for Priority Mail Express), the Post Office makes another notification attempt. If not picked up within 15 days (5 days for Priority Mail Express), the item is returned to sender.
3. Does USPS check your packages?
Answer: If there is probable cause to believe the contents of a First-Class letter or parcel violate federal law, Postal Inspectors can obtain a search warrant to open the mail piece. Other classes of mail do not contain private correspondence and therefore may be opened without a warrant.
Information regarding the answers was collected from official website of USPS. We can make mistakes and readers are requested to report us if we do so. You can always check it by yourself from the Official website.
