The BBB recently posted an article warning all online buyers to be very cautious of text messages or emails they receive claiming there was an issue with the delivery of their purchase.  Here's what you need to know:

I think pretty much everyone has received a text message or email regarding the delivery of their purchase.  Here at BigBrandWholesale.com we just partnered with Route.com, a parcel tracking service that allows buyers to sign up for text message status updates as well as offering the ability for the purchaser to track their parcel LIVE on a map from start to finish! (Super cool, eh?!)  But, scammers are also capitalizing on this modern technology and using it to defraud honest people.  Here's how the scam works:

The fraudster obtains a list of cell phone numbers and blasts out text messages that claim there was an issue with delivery, specifically, that the buyer missed delivery and needs to reschedule.  These text messages can claim to be sent by anyone, randing from USPS to FedEx to DHL, ParcelForce and more:

When the person clicks the link malware / viruses are downloaded onto the individuals device.  Additionally, these links can lead to web pages that ask for personal information, "to help reschedule delivery", however this personal info is used for identity theft purposes.  

WHAT TO DO IF YOU RECEIVE A "MISSED DELIVERY" TEXT OR EMAIL:

- Locate the tracking number for your purchase through the companies website or through the email you received when your order shipped. 

Next, copy the tracking number then go directly to the carriers website, such as USPS.com.  You can now look up your tracking number and see if delivery was actually missed.  If it was you can reschedule delivery directly through the carriers website. 

- Most carriers will automatically re-attempt delivery the next business day, so if this is the first time you missed delivery all you have to do is wait until tomorrow.  However if you have missed delivery multiple times you definately want to reschedule otherwise the parcel will be sent back to the seller.

- If possible, use apps that allow you to easily track all of your parcels, such as AfterShip, Route, etc.  

- If you are a frequent buyer from a specific site, download their app so you can have quick access to your purchase history and tracking numbers.