Something's 'Smishy'! Don't Click That Link!USPS Says It's a Scam

There is yet another way that scammers are trying to gain your personal information. This time it's through a text message on your phone that looks as if it is coming from the United States Postal Service. This is a scam called "smishing".

Photo by William Hook on Unsplash

What is Smishing?

Smishing is a form of phishing that sends a text message or a phone number. The deceptive text message is received that tries to lure the recipient to provide their financial and personal information. In this case, the scammers are disguising themselves as the USPS.

usps.gov

This may look like a real text but it is a scam to gain passwords, usernames, Social Security numbers, credit card info, and even PIN numbers to steal money and identification.

The USPS Will Never Send You A Link

The USPS has tools to help you follow your packages, and they won't charge you for it. But they won't send you texts or emails unless you ask for them with a tracking number. If you get a text with a link and you didn't ask for it, don't click on it!

Photo by Mikel Parera on Unsplash

If you're not sure about a text but you're waiting for a package, don't click links. Instead, report it and go to USPS's official website from your phone or computer to track your package and find more info.

To protect yourself from scams and smishing, check out the USPS fraud prevention page by clicking HERE.

LOOK! Abandoned Orange County Chopper HQs in Newburgh-TLC's 'American Chopper'

WARNING: Under no circumstances should you enter this property. By doing so you risk bodily harm and/or prosecution for trespassing on private property.

In 2003, a father-son business reality show hit the Discovery Channel. It was called American Chopper and it followed the custom motorcycle-building business of the Teutul family out of Newburgh, NY. Paul Sr. owned the shop with sons Paul Jr. and Mikey working in the business. There was a slew of cast and characters. The center of the show wasn't just the amazing custom motorcycles built for celebrities and others, it was the volatile relationship between Sr. and Jr. The show ran for 12 seasons before the two could no longer get along. It ended up in lawsuits and the two not talking for ten-plus years. In the past few years, the business moved to Florida. This left the 61,000-square-foot headquarters for sale and abandoned. Take a look at what remains of Orange County Choppers.