Avoiding the constant barrage of email security threats has become a challenge for even the most savvy internet users. These emails may be used to install a Trojan program on a computer to collect data that will be used in Internet fraud, identity theft or allow a hacker to gain control of your computer.
Two of the threats currently circulating are:
UPS – sends you an email stating “Unfortunately, we failed to deliver the package you have sent on the 27th of February in time, because the recipient’s address is not correct. Please go to the nearest UPS office and show your shipping label to collect the package.” The email includes a submit button that, supposedly, will print a shipping label.
FedEx – someone masquerading as FedEx sends you an email stating that your parcel has arrived. Courier was unable to deliver the parcel to you at… To receive your parcel, please, print this receipt and go to the nearest office.
See below:
Both of these emails are bogus and with a little detective work you can identify the problems.
There are 3 very important and easy to distinguish warning signs with these types of emails:
1: The first warning sign is that the message is not written in clear English, contains improper punctuation and just doesn’t make sense.
2: The second warning sign is that the “senders” email address is obviously NOT a FedEx email address
3: And finally, if you hover your mouse cursor over the “Print Receipt” link you’ll see that it points to a website that has absolutely nothing to do with FedEx.
Many people are tricked into clicking the links because they may be waiting for a package delivery or have recently sent something to someone. That’s what the hackers are counting on when they send these types of emails.
Once you’ve clicked the link, the damage is done so be very vigilant in verifying every minute detail in these types of email scams. Also keep in mind that FedEx and UPS don’t usually email their customers about anything having to do with deliveries.
The BEST course of action is to immediately delete these emails without clicking any of the links. If you have reason to believe or “think” the email might be legitimate – simply pick up the phone and call the carrier involved.
