Security PSA: Don’t Click on that Random Text
Have you received a "too good to be true" text from Amazon? Or Walmart? Or Home Depot? These are scammers phishing for information, and the best thing you can do is ignore and delete.
The FTC has seen a spike in reports from people getting text messages that look like they’re from well-known names like USPS, Costco, or The Home Depot and others. The scams may very, but they usually revolve around getting your personal information or money.
You may get a text from scammers pretending to be USPS and asking you to confirm your debit card details so you can get an undelivered package. Or you might get texts about a chance to win a free gift card or a power tool. To claim your “reward,” you’re told to click on the link, answer some questions, and pay for shipping. Don’t do it!
What do I do if I receive one of these texts?
The FTC has a couple tips to keep yourself safe:
- Don’t click on links or respond to unexpected texts — including ones asking you to fill out surveys to get free items. If you think it could be legit, contact the company using a website or phone number you know is real. Don’t use the information in the text message.
- Don’t pay to get a package redelivered. The real USPS won’t contact you out of the blue about a delivery (unless you submitted a request first and give a tracking number) — and they’ll never demand payment to redeliver a package.
Do you think you may have fallen victim to one of these scams? Contact the FTC and report the scam ASAP.