THE United States Postal Service is warning Americans of a troubling scam which begins with specific three-word phrases. 

In honor of National Consumer Protection Week, the USPS is reminding consumers to stay safe from fraudsters who pretend to need help.

The USPS warns that these scammers will manipulate victims into giving them their personal information so they can steal their money.

“There are many types of imposter scams,” Inspector in Charge (INC) Eric Shen of the Criminal Investigations Group told WFMZ. 

“But they all start with messages like, ‘I’m in trouble…,’ ‘I need…,’ ‘You’ve won!..,’ or ‘I have a great offer for you!’ 

“These scammers lull consumers into a false sense of trust, gain access to privileged information, and then drain financial accounts.”

At least 2.6 million consumers reported losing a total of $10 billion to fraud in 2023, according to the Federal Trade Commission

That marks an almost 21% increase from 2022. 

“Digital tools are making it easier than ever to target hard-working Americans, and we see the effects of that in the data we’re releasing today,” Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, said in a statement. 

“The FTC is working hard to take action against those scams.”

There are things consumers can do to protect themselves from these tricky fraudsters.

“With a few simple tips, consumers can protect themselves from imposter scams,” Shen said.

“Take your time to make financial decisions,” Shen advised.

“Whether it’s investments or unsolicited offers, like the lottery or sweepstakes, don’t rush into sending your money to someone you don’t know.”

Shen reminds citizens to think twice before answering any emails from banks or out-of-the-blue family members claiming to be in desperate situations.

“To be certain, call your bank at the number you were given when you opened your account,” he said.

“Don’t call a number that you haven’t verified and never click on any links in an email or text.

“Before sending money to help a grandchild who says they’re in a desperate situation, make sure it’s really them! 

Bank tips for avoiding scams

As scams become more sophisticated with the use of artificial intelligence, it is important you know how to spot a scam:

• Be skeptical of online deals that seem too good to be true, especially on social media.
• Scammers will often use tactics to make you panicked so you make quick decisions – be cautious if you are told to take immediate action and verify who has contacted you.
• Chase Bank warns customers to “never return any unexpected funds without calling Chase first.”
• Never send money to someone you have only spoken to online or by phone as this is likely a romance scam.
• Unless you 100% know who you are talking to, never give someone remote access to your device.
• Never accept help from strangers at an ATM and always be vigilant when making withdrawals.
• Do not send money or click any links indicating that you have won a prize.

Source: Chase.com

“Call them or their parents at a number you recognize to confirm they sent you a message.”

The USPS said it will never send an unsolicited text or email. 

If you do receive an unsolicited text, send it to spam@uspis.gov before deleting it.

Anyone who believes they are a victim of a fraud or scam can submit an online report through the Inspection Service.