Decoding UPS Text Messages: Authentic Communications vs. Scams in 2023
Last Updated on 28/08/2023 by UPS_ Admin
In the digital era, as online shopping booms, companies like UPS use text messaging to update customers. However, this convenience brings risks of scams. In 2023, while UPS communicates via texts, it’s vital to recognize genuine messages from scams. They text primarily about tracking and delivery, requiring explicit customer consent before sending updates. Yet, scammers often mimic these official messages. It’s essential to understand UPS’s texting methods, their originating numbers, and ways to ensure one’s safety against deceptive practices.
Contents
Does UPS Send Text Messages?
Yes, UPS does send text messages in 2023. However, they only send texts under specific conditions:
- Origin of the Text: UPS texts only from the number 69877 and not from any mobile number.
- Nature of the Texts: They provide SMS updates for tracking/delivery information.
- Request Required: UPS doesn’t send text messages unless a customer has scheduled a delivery with them and explicitly requested SMS updates.
- Consent: Customers need to confirm their agreement to the UPS SMS Program Terms and Conditions and the UPS Privacy Notice to receive these messages.
- Scams and Safety: There are scams that impersonate UPS. It’s advised not to click on links within such messages, especially if one hasn’t requested updates or doesn’t have any scheduled deliveries with UPS. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has also warned against clicking on links from texts claiming to be from carriers like UPS as it could lead to fraud, identity theft, or malware infections.
- Special Notifications: If there’s a need for a code to pick up a package, the shipper will provide the code directly to the recipient.
- Additional Features: Customers can also view all shipment details, receive delivery alerts, photos, and even change delivery date or location.
While UPS does send text messages in 2023, they do so only under specific conditions, and customers should be cautious about potential scams.
What Number Does UPS Text From?
In the United States, the primary SMS number used by UPS for text communication is 69877, also known as MYUPS. This number is used to provide automated text updates for tracking and delivery information. UPS ensures that these automated texts will never solicit personal information from recipients. Texts from UPS should not be coming from a mobile number, and if they do or if they ask for personal data, they are likely scams.
While 69877 is the primary number for American and Canadian residents or packages associated with these locations, UPS may use different SMS numbers for individuals in other countries. It’s advised to check the UPS SMS program’s terms and conditions page for information regarding numbers associated with other countries.
Recipients should exercise caution with text messages that do not include recognizable details, such as their name, address, or a legitimate tracking number. All legitimate tracking numbers provided can be confirmed on the official UPS website.
In addition to 69877, other numbers such as 94601, 48515, and 52892 have also been associated with UPS text communications. If any text message seems suspicious or if it’s received from an unknown number, recipients are advised to avoid clicking on any links and to verify the legitimacy of the message through official UPS channels.
If you are in the U.S., all authentic texts from UPS should primarily come from 69877 (MYUPS). Any deviation from this without a legitimate reason may indicate a scam, and due diligence should be taken to verify the authenticity of the message.
Why Did I Get a UPS Text?
UPS, once confirmed, provides SMS tracking for individual shipments without repeated phone verifications unless opted out. However, many receive unsolicited messages about unclaimed UPS packages. These might be scams as reported on September 3, 2020. UPS warns on their site about such scams, clarifying they never solicit personal or financial details. By July 25, 2022, it was advised not to click on unsolicited links. Meanwhile, “UPS” in text platforms typically means “Uninterruptible Power Supply.” The context or content of the message from the world of grown-ups regarding “the beast” isn’t fully provided.
Does UPS Send Text Messages with Links?
UPS does send text messages that may contain links, especially when you have a scheduled delivery and have opted in for SMS updates. These legitimate messages from UPS will always have links from “ups.com” and not any other website. It’s crucial to remain vigilant, as there are scammers who might use the UPS name to send deceptive links aimed at extracting personal information or installing malware.
If you ever receive a text from UPS that seems suspicious, it’s recommended to:
- Check the start of the link; if it doesn’t begin with “ups.com”, avoid opening it.
- On mobile devices, press and hold the link to preview its destination without actually visiting it.
- On computers, hover over the link to view its target.
Always avoid clicking on unsolicited messages with links, especially if you haven’t scheduled a delivery or requested SMS updates from UPS. If an unexpected message prompts for personal details, especially sensitive ones like your Social Security number or credit card details, it’s a red flag and is likely a scam.
Does UPS Text Before Deliveries?
Yes, UPS does text before deliveries. UPS will send different SMS text message updates for various delivery-related notifications such as the day before delivery, the day of delivery, delivery schedule updates, and confirmation of delivery. However, it’s essential to note that UPS doesn’t send text messages unless you have a delivery scheduled with them and have requested SMS updates. If a customer hasn’t asked for these updates, they shouldn’t click on any links provided in unsolicited messages.
Does UPS text for delivery fees?
No, UPS does not send text messages asking for delivery fees. People are receiving scam text messages claiming their package requires a delivery fee and are asked to click a link to make a payment. However, this is a scam. UPS does not include payment links in text messages. If someone receives such a text, they should be wary and not click on any links or provide personal information. It’s noted that while UPS might bill customers for certain fees, they would not do so through a text message with a link for immediate payment. If there are any fees associated with a delivery, UPS would send an invoice or indicate it on the tracking, rather than asking for immediate payment via a suspicious text link.
Conclusion
While UPS has incorporated text messaging as a communication method in 2023, it is imperative for customers to exercise caution and remain informed. UPS’s commitment is clear: they send texts under specific conditions, always from recognizable numbers, and never solicit personal information. Most importantly, they prioritize customer safety, urging users not to click on suspicious links and always confirm the authenticity of a message. As the digital age amplifies both conveniences and risks, customers should arm themselves with knowledge and always cross-check information directly with UPS to avoid falling prey to scams. Always remember: if a message feels off, it’s better to be safe and verify.
