According to the BBB, the text is a scam where scammers use the link to steal your personal information.
MAINE, United States — The Better Business Bureau is warning people to beware of delivery scams after customers were targeted via text message.
According to an email from BBB spokeswoman Paula Fleming, the phone messages appear to come from official couriers such as UPS, FedEx, USPS or Amazon and ask their customers to update the courier on the package by clicking a link preference. Flemming added that the text is a hoax, with scammers using the link to steal your personal information.
According to the BBB, here are the top delivery scams to watch out for:
1. Texts or emails that appear to be from an official delivery company
They contain a “tracking link,” a message that the shipper is having trouble delivering your package to you, or a link to update your delivery preferences.
Clicking the link either takes you to a form asking for personally identifiable information or takes you to a site that downloads malware onto your computer, Fleming said.
2. Fake “Not Delivered” Labels
Scammers leave a note on your door claiming they can’t deliver your package. They’ll leave you with a phone number that you can call and reschedule your delivery, but that’s another way to get your personal information.
Scammers will stalk delivery trucks and steal your packages before you get home from get off work.
According to the BBB, ways to avoid delivery scams:
1. Take precautions to ensure safe delivery
You can purchase shipping insurance or get a tracking number for your purchase and track and check the shipping progress.
2. Be on the lookout for texts, calls or emails about missed deliveries
Legitimate delivery services will often leave a “missed delivery” notice on your door. If you get one, check its authenticity before following the instructions.
Delivery services can’t deliver packages to your door unless someone is nearby to sign for them.
4. Don’t leave packages at your doorstep
5. Receipts are opened upon receipt to inspect for damage or signs of tampering