READ UP ON WAYS TO HELP PROTECT YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY THEFT SCAMMERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!
Given the fact that whilst the festive season is celebrated as a time of peace on earth and goodwill toward men, identity bandits have geared up this time of the year to commit mail and delivery fraud. During the holiday seasons, scammers expect that shoppers will come to be too caught up to take precautions to protect their private and personal information—and they are 100% correct!
With the U.S. Postal Service Inspector General acquired about 340,000 complaints of mail fraud and mail theft between March 2020 and February 2021!
It’s NO WONDER that mail fraud has been making headlines. With that being said, what scams should you be looking out for?
CHANGE OF ADDRESS SCAMS (COA)
A scammer can easily complete a fraudulent change of address (COA) form in your name. They only require your full name, current mailing address, and a forged signature. The scammer can utilize this information to have your mail rerouted, allowing them to intercept gift cards, presents, and other sales. Similarly, the scammer may collect personal information from your incoming mail to commit identity theft, along with healthcare fraud or benefits fraud.
Porch-Pirates!
It's a simple, but effective, con. During the season when mail volume is significantly higher than usual, "porch pirates" may also choose to steal packages left on your porch. When the package is delivered, often these delivery services will send an email or text confirmation, so make sure you or even let a trusted neighbor know you're expecting a package so they can help bring the package inside pronto!
"BRUSHING" HOAX
The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) formerly reported a new scam in which you receive a package including merchandise you did not order. This is an indication that your name and mail address may have been illegally used by a third-party seller to spoof a “verified purchase” and write a positive review for the product. Fraudsters consider a few giveaways a decent price to spend when positive reviews may produce significantly more sales.
Although this may appear like a victimless crime, it implies that your personal information has been compromised. Be cautious of follow-up calls that could persuade you into a scam. Do NOT pay for the item or pay any cash to return it.
SURPRISE DELIVERIES OR NOTIFICATIONS
Be completely skeptical if you get an unexpected email or text about a package coming. Matter of fact, it may also be a phishing scam. It's feasible that a friend or relative of yours hoped to surprise you with a gift. Please avoid clicking any links in the communication. This can expose you to malware or redirect you to a form the scammer has set up to gather your personal information. Instead, get in touch with the delivery service immediately to clarify that you received a delivery.
If you’re given a phone number to call for more information, don’t use it. The caller could be a scammer posing as a customer service representative, hoping to steal your credit card information by asking you to pay additional tax or a “delivery fee.” Instead, reach out to the company’s customer support team directly through their website or app. If you find yourself the victim of mail fraud, reach out to the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the FTC to report the crime, right away!
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