USPS, DHL, and Netflix Phishing Scams

This week we’ve found a large number of scams that you should watch out for, including ones relating to USPS, DHL, and Netflix. Would you have been able to spot all the scams?

Impersonating famous brands and companies, scammers will send out phishing links (usually via text messages or emails), and try to entice you into opening them with various lies. These phishing links will lead to malicious websites containing fake log-in pages that will ask for your personal information and/or log-in credentials.

Package Delivery/Shipping Scams

Christmas is right around the corner! Are you still expecting any packages? Scammers know that it is exciting to wait for a package to be delivered, and they are ready to ruin the fun.

#1 USPS Scams

Posing as this well-known delivery company, scammers send a fake delivery notification to you via text message or email. They claim that you have missed the delivery of a package or that you have to pay a delivery fee to get the package:

• Package Tracking: Your package is on hold and cannot be delivered due to incorrect address. pls submit an updated address: <URL>

The texts contain a phishing link that leads to a fake USPS tracking page, such as the below.

These pages require you to submit log-in credentials in order to view your delivery status, change your settings — or whatever fake reason the scammers have created. At this stage, scammers can record your sensitive data and use it to commit cybercrime, such as hacking into your bank account or even identity theft. Don’t let them!

Never Fall for USPS Phishing Scams — Use Trend Micro Check!

Trend Micro Check is a browser extension and mobile app for detecting scams, phishing attacks, malware, and dangerous links — and it’s FREE!

Check out this page for more information on Trend Micro Check.

#2 DHL Scams

DHL is also one of the most impersonated delivery companies. Once again, scammers will falsely claim that you need to track your package via the embedded button:

There are many different excuses scammers use to trick you:

No matter the disguise and excuse, the scammer’s ultimate goal is to get you to the phishing page where they can steal your personal information. Watch out!

Netflix Scams

Besides online shopping, chilling at home watching Netflix is also one of the best home activities during the holiday season. However, we’ve detected a lot of Netflix phishing attempts recently too — stay alert!

As mentioned, scammers will pose as Netflix and send you fake text messages or emails about your Netflix account, or to promote free gift cards. They’ll do their persuasive best to trick you into clicking on the attached phishing link.

Sample fake Netflix text message:

• [Information ] Your Netflix account has been suspended, because we‘re having some trouble with your current account information. Recovery your Netflix account immediately by click link bellow: <URL> Please take action on your account within 48 hours to avoid permanent suspension.
  Best Regards,
  Netflix. Inc

The link will take you to a fake Netflix page. Again, any credentials entered will end up in the scammers’ hands. Don’t let them get away with it!

Stay Safe from Scams This Holiday Season

• Pay close attention to URLs — are they legitimate?
• Double-check the sender’s mobile number/email address.
• Free gifts are always a major red flag.
• Go to the official website/application instead of using links from unknown sources.
• Never click on links or attachments from unknown sources. Use Trend Micro Check to surf the web safely (it’s FREE!).
• Change your password as soon as possible if you’ve already clicked on a suspicious link. Consider using our online Password Generator (also FREE!) to create strong, tough-to-hack passwords.
• Add an extra layer of protection to your devices with Trend Micro Maximum Security. Its Web Threat Protection, Ransomware Protection, Anti-phishing, and Anti-spam Protection will help you combat scams and cyberattacks. Click the button below to give it a try.

If you’ve found this article an interesting and/or helpful read, please do SHARE it with friends and family to help keep the online community secure and protected. Also, please consider leaving a comment or like below! Stay safe and Happy Holidays, folks!