Multiple Faces Detected
June 2nd, 2020
It feels great to get a package delivered. However, before you do…. the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is reporting a new 2020 FedEx scam making the rounds. This scam is targeting consumers via text message and may be easier to fall for than you think! This is everything you need to know about the latest trends in FedEx scams, to stay protected and avoid being tricked by an SMS scammer after your cash!
What is a FedEx Text Scam?
A fake shipping text and link are sent directly to your smartphone.
How Does the FedEx Text Scam Work?
First, a scammer sends you a text message that appears to be from FedEx. Within that text message is a (fake) shipment tracking code. To the innocent observer, this tracking code seems to be legitimate and accompanies a link to update delivery settings. During a time when many consumers are shopping online, the temptation to click this link might be strong.
You might wonder if a package you ordered is delayed or believe that it’s important to update your settings. The problem is that the text did not originate from FedEx and the link is fake.
Should you actually proceed and click on the link, you may be led to a text box or web form that asks you for your credit card number (allegedly for shipping purposes). You might also be linked to – what appears to be – a customer satisfaction survey or another type of free trial offer that may charge you an upfront fee. The link you’ve been directed to could originate from several types of sources. It might be from a purely fraudulent scammer who will steal your financial information. Or, it could be from an online business using less than honest means to get you to complete a web form and sign-up for service.
* Please note that while the FTC’s specifies these scam FedEx texts as being very common, the fake texts might also show the U.S. Postal Service or another respected shipping company.
How to Stay Safe
Staying safe involves staying aware and making smart choices both on and offline. However tempting a scam may appear on the surface, do not click on unsolicited links. Instead, call the company and ask, should you be truly concerned.
Other tips include….
- Verification: Verify the sender of texts and search by email address, phone number, username, name, and more at Social Catfish. Take advantage of easy-to-use tools and perform a comprehensive reverse searches. Don’t assume any email or text is legitimate, without fact checking the source and sender!
- Never reveal your financial details (bank or credit card information) on unknown or unsolicited web forms or by phone (even to telemarketers). People can use these financial details against you and steal your hard-earned money.
- Beware of texts that make promises. If a text promises free prizes, gift cards, coupons, student loan offers, or no interest credit cards, it’s likely a scam!
- Learn how to recognize and respond to scam texts with the FTC’s own designated website.
- Don’t suffer in silence. Many victims stay silent and don’t report scams as they feel embarrassed about being tricked. Being scammed is not your fault and can happen to anyone. File a scam complaint, here and help protect others from scammers and fraud.
While scammers may be trickier than ever, Social Catfish has the tools to help you stay safe. Social Catfish has been perfecting the art of catching and exposing scammers, catfish, and spammers for years… and we can help you stop scams before they start. Use our reverse search tool, which allows you to search up any name, email address, phone number, image, or username of anyone you think might’ve scammed you.
