The phenomenon involves deceptive SMS messages designed to appear as legitimate communications from the United States Postal Service (USPS). These texts typically contain a link that, when clicked, leads to a fraudulent website requesting personal or financial information under the guise of package tracking or delivery confirmation. Online platforms such as Reddit often serve as spaces for users to share experiences and warnings about these fraudulent schemes, providing examples of the texts and websites used.
Awareness of these scams is crucial to protect individuals from identity theft and financial loss. The sharing of information on platforms like Reddit helps disseminate knowledge and empowers individuals to recognize and avoid these fraudulent attempts. Historically, such scams have evolved in sophistication, leveraging trusted brands and anxieties surrounding package delivery to exploit vulnerabilities.