With Christmas around the corner, a new scam is targeting unsuspecting consumers, adding to the ever-growing list of package delivery cons. This latest scam involves text messages from individuals posing as delivery drivers, seemingly trying to locate your home. While older scams try to get you to click on a link to a phishing site where you input your personal and financial information, the new scam asks you to call the fake driver directly. When you call, you're stepping into the scammer's trap.
The scammer, posing as the driver, will ask for your name, and address, and will push to get your credit card information or other personal details that can then be used for identity theft or unauthorized charges.
This new scam is particularly insidious because it plays on the anticipation and excitement of receiving holiday packages. Most people are more likely to trust a message that seems related to their expected deliveries.
Read more: How to Prevent Spam Callers from Leaving Voicemail
How to protect yourself from package delivery scams
Use the following checklist to ensure you don't get conned by a package delivery scam.
Verify Before Responding
If you receive a suspicious message, do not respond directly. Instead, contact the shipping company using a phone number or website you know is real by verifying online. Do not use any contact details provided in the suspicious message.
Check Your Orders
If you're expecting a delivery, go directly to the retailer's or courier's official website to check the status of your order. Most major shippers allow you to do this using your tracking number. Don't click on links in unsolicited messages.
Guard Your Personal Information
If you do respond, don't share personal details like your address or financial information over the phone, especially if you did not initiate the call.
Read more: 7 Steps You Should Take Immediately When Your Phone is Stolen
Remember, scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick consumers, especially during high-volume shopping periods like the holidays. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these nefarious schemes.
[Image credit: scam alert concept on phone via BigStockPhoto]
For the past 20+ years, Techlicious founder Suzanne Kantra has been exploring and writing about the world’s most exciting and important science and technology issues. Prior to Techlicious, Suzanne was the Technology Editor for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and the Senior Technology Editor for Popular Science. Suzanne has been featured on CNN, CBS, and NBC.
