Officials warn shoppers about package-tracking scams l GMA

Summary

As Christmas approaches, authorities are warning consumers about scam text messages that mimic package tracking updates from carriers like the USPS. These messages, often from personal phone numbers, request money or personal information. Red flags include lack of store mention, requests for updated shipping addresses in transit, and grammatical errors. The Florida Attorney General advises that USPS will not send tracking updates via text unless specifically opted into online. Consumers are advised not to click on suspicious links and to block unknown senders.

Takeaways

• 🚨 **Scam Alert**: Consumers are warned about scam text messages involving package tracking as Christmas approaches.
• ⚠️ **Red Flags**: Scam messages often come from a personal 10-digit phone number and may seek personal information or money.
• 📍 **No Store Mentioned**: Legitimate companies typically mention the store name when shipping items, which is often missing in scam texts.
• 🏢 **Shipping Address Requests**: Companies usually require a shipping address at the time of purchase and won't ask for updates mid-shipment.
• 🔗 **Suspicious Links**: Beware of grammatical errors and suspicious links in texts, which are common in scam messages.
• 📧 **USPS Policy**: The United States Postal Service (USPS) will not send package tracking updates via text unless you've specifically signed up for it online.
• 🛑 **Advice for Recipients**: If you receive a suspicious text, do not click on any links and block the number to protect yourself.
• 🔒 **Protect Your Information**: Always be cautious about sharing personal or financial information in response to unsolicited messages.
• 📲 **Text Message Source**: Scam messages may appear to come from common carriers or USPS, but they are fraudulent attempts to steal information.
• 📱 **Subscribe for Updates**: To get legitimate package tracking updates via text, sign up for the service through the official USPS website.

Q & A

What is the main warning issued by the Florida Attorney General regarding holiday shopping?

The Florida Attorney General is warning consumers about scam text messages that appear to be from the United States Postal Service or other common carriers, seeking either money or personal information.

Why are scam text messages particularly concerning during the holiday season?

Scam text messages are concerning during the holiday season because many people are placing orders for gifts, making them more susceptible to such scams.

Which states have issued warnings about scam text messages related to package tracking?

Officials in both Nevada and Oregon have issued warnings to consumers about scam text messages involving package tracking.

What are some red flags to look out for in scam text messages?

Red flags include messages coming from a personal 10-digit phone number, no mention of the shipping store, requests for an updated shipping address in transit, and grammatical errors or suspicious links.

How can consumers protect themselves from these scam text messages?

Consumers should not click on links from unknown senders and should block the number if they suspect a text message is a scam.

Does the United States Postal Service send package tracking updates via text message?

The United States Postal Service will never send a text with package tracking updates unless the recipient has specifically signed up for that service online.

What is the advice given by the Florida Attorney General's office if one receives a suspicious text message?

The advice is to not click on any links and to block the number if a text message appears to be a scam.

What is the role of the ABC News YouTube channel in providing updates like these?

The ABC News YouTube channel provides updates and alerts, including consumer alerts like the one about scam text messages, to keep viewers informed.

How can viewers get more videos and live event coverage from ABC News?

Viewers can subscribe to the ABC News YouTube channel and download the ABC News app for breaking news alerts.

What is the significance of grammatical errors in identifying scam text messages?

Grammatical errors are often a sign of a scam text message as legitimate companies typically have professional communication standards.

Why might a scammer ask for an updated shipping address in transit?

A scammer might ask for an updated shipping address in transit to collect personal information or to confirm that the recipient is expecting a package, making the scam seem more legitimate.