By Nathalie Voit
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a consumer alert warning the public about clicking on random text messages allegedly stemming from well-known companies like The Home Depot, Costco, or USPS.
In a post published on August 8, the federal agency told consumers to ignore unexpected texts asking people to click on a link to claim a “reward” or to fill out a survey for a chance to win free items. Those messages are a scam, and bad actors may be trying to steal your identity.
If you think the messages are legitimate, the FTC said to contact the company using a verified email or phone number.
Never use the information in the text message. If you do, you will find unauthorized charges posted to your account rather than that “freebie” you were promised or the “undelivered package” that was supposed to arrive.
Additionally, never pay to get a package redelivered. Real USPS officials would never demand payment or ask you to confirm your credit card details to redeliver a package.
Unexpected text messages directing you to click on a suspicious link are just one of many imposter scams the FTC warns about. The consumer protection agency also said to look out for social security scam calls, romance scams, IRS imposter scams, nanny and caregiver imposter scams, family emergency scams, tech support scams, and so-called “grandkid scams,” among many others.
