United States Postal Service and US Postal Inspection Service Highlight Successful Campaigns to Combat Postal Crimes

“Combating mail theft and violent crimes targeting Postal Service employees is of the highest priority for the Postal Service and the Postal Inspection Service, and through our efforts, we are making the entire mail system safer, from ensuring the protection of our employees to making sure customer’s packages make it to their delivery location safely and efficiently,” said Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.

Combatting Phishing, Smishing, and Brushing Scams

During the 2024 holiday season, USPIS saw an uptick in phishing and smishing scam attempts. Phishing and smishing is an email or text message about a package delivery or unpaid online postage charges, usually with the subject line. These phishing emails and smishing texts appear to be from the U.S. Postal Service, but they are not, and individuals should not interact with them.

Brushing scams, a growing concern, involve receiving unsolicited packages containing low-cost items like household goods. These packages are often sent by online retailers or third parties who use your personal information to create fake transactions, inflating product reviews or sales rankings. If you receive such packages, it is critical to report them and protect your personal data. 

Simple Tips to Keep Customers Safe from Scam Attempts

• USPS doesn’t send unsolicited text messages, you have to sign up using the parcels tracking number first
• USPS text messages NEVER include links
• Treat your personal information like cash
• Don’t click on any links
• Forward USPS-related spam emails to [email protected]; forward smishing/text message to 7726 or email [email protected]

LISTEN: Don’t Get Snowed – Avoiding Holiday Scams with USPS

Project Safe Delivery

Launched in May 2023 to enhance employee safety and protect customers’ mail and packages. Since its inception, Project Safe Delivery has resulted in a 27% reduction in letter carrier robberies and more than 2,400 arrests related to mail theft and related crimes.

Key Aspects:

• Education and Outreach: USPIS has reached over 169 million addresses through regular outreach programs delivered by 34,000 Post Offices. These programs empower residents and businesses with tools to protect their mail, provide guidance on avoiding identity frauds like smishing and brushing, and educate the public on how to prevent mail theft. Monetary rewards for information on mail crimes have also been increased.

• Coordination with Local Law Enforcement: In Charlotte and across the nation, USPIS has partnered with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to amplify its impact. In the past year alone, USPIS conducted 12 targeted “surges” in high-crime areas, resulting in more than 1,300 investigative actions and dozens of arrests. Partnerships with local law enforcement agencies have created a “force multiplier” effect, enhancing the program’s reach and effectiveness. By deterring theft and providing safer access for customers, the initiative has reinforced trust in USPS’s role as a reliable and secure mail carrier.

• Technological Innovation: The use of advanced forensic technology has accelerated the investigation and resolution of mail theft cases, providing greater accuracy in tracking criminal activity.

• Public Awareness on Fraud Prevention: Project Safe Delivery emphasizes simple, actionable steps for customers to protect their mail. Key tips include retrieving mail promptly, avoiding leaving checks in mailboxes overnight, and reporting suspicious activity. Additionally, customers are cautioned about counterfeit stamps and urged to purchase postage only from official USPS vendors.

WATCH: Don’t Let Your Mail Carrier Get Snowed

For 250 years, the United States Postal Inspection Service has played a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the nation’s mail system. Their efforts represent a continued commitment to this legacy, ensuring the safety of mail and the people who depend on it. As the Postal Service moves further into 2025, it remains committed to enhancing its technological capabilities to combat postal crimes.