At this point, we're pretty alert to cyber scams, they're everywhere.  Well, police around the U.S. are alerting residents of a scam circulating right now where you get a text from FedEx or other delivery company saying they have package info for you.
I saw the story on UpNorthLive and then on CNN, the original warning came from the police department in Duxbury, MA and read:

There is a new scam where you get a text with your name from Fedex (or another delivery service)and a tracking number. Do not click on the link. When in doubt about a tracking number go to the main website of the shipping company and search the tracking number yourself

This particular text gets you to click a link by saying they have your package - with a tracking number - but they need you to set up delivery preferences in order to get your package delivered.

courtesy of Duxbury Police via Twitter
courtesy of Duxbury Police via Twitter
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Apparently Uber, Amazon, and FedEx have all been used in the scam text messages.  UpNorthLive reports that FedEx has had numerous customers receiving the scam texts, and told ABC News in a release:

"We are committed to protecting the security and integrity of our network. While there is no foolproof method to prevent the FedEx name from being used in a scam, we are constantly monitoring for such activity and work cooperatively with law enforcement.  FedEx does not send unsolicited text messages or emails to customers requesting money or package or personal information. Any suspicious text messages or emails should be deleted without being opened, and reported to abuse@fedex.com."

I think the important reminder from FedEx themselves: "FedEx does not send unsolicited text messages or emails to customers requesting money or package or personal information".

Also if you get a text message from any company that's asking for info, check for typos or weird punctuation or spacing, that's a good indication that something isn't right.

Some other tips to avoid phishing scams, from UpNorthLive:

Indicators that an e-mail or sms message might be fraudulent include:

  • Unexpected requests for money in return for delivery of a package or other item, personal and/or financial information, such as your Social Security number, bank account number, or other identification.

  • Links to misspelled or slightly altered Web-site addresses. For example, variations on the correct Web-site address fedex.com, such as fedx.com or fed-ex.com.

  • Alarming messages and requests for immediate action, such as "Your account will be suspended within 24 hours if you don't respond" or claims that you've won the lottery or a prize.

  • Spelling and grammatical errors and excessive use of exclamation points (!).

 

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