COVID-19 has prompted a change in the way Americans interact with commerce, specifically allowing North Georgians to track everything from gifts to groceries from a warehouse anywhere in the world to their own front porch, all while maintaining social distance.
The Better Business Bureau of North Atlanta is seeing scam numbers increase as deliveries do, and spokeswoman Dottie Callina said scammers are getting creative. While some actually want the physical things you've purchased, others are just looking for your personal information.
One newer and more crafty tricks is the false delivery sticker. Callina said you'll find a realistic "We Missed You" delivery sticker from what appears to be a delivery company you use, with information on how to organize your delivery. But, not so fast.
"They indicate they're having challenges delivering to you, they ask you to call a particular phone number - and I'm doing air quotes with that - to reschedule you're delivery," said Callina. If you call, the scammers will ask for all kinds of personal information, and the package is a fake.
Similarly, a text or email message might come up with a short link asking you how to get a package your ordered delivered. It will say it is Amazon, UPS, FedEx or another carrier or company you know and use. Callina said don't click that link!
"It's going to ask for personal information, and/or it's going to download malware onto your phone, your computer, whatever," "It's a way for criminals to obtain personal information because it's the scope of information criminals have, all they need is your last name and your email address and they can hack into your email, possibly your bank, credit card, you don't know how far this can go."
Callina said the easiest way to avoid a personal information scan regarding online shopping or any kind of delivery is to reject whatever link, message, or note pops up, and go straight to the source. If it said Amazon, go direct to Amazon and check on your deliveries to confirm if the message or note is true.
While we typically see porch pirates during the holidays, Callina says they've been just as active during the pandemic. With many people working from home, Callina said the pirates are working more quickly.
"If you're going to have any item delivered that's very valuable, that you're home to get that delivery," said Callina. "Or, have it delivered somewhere so someone else can accept the delivery for you."
Creating a team of your neighbors can make times like these a little easier. She said if you have a good neighbor, ask them to check for packages, keep an eye out for unusual people going door to door, or watch for following cars if they hear the delivery truck. And, return the favor when you're able.
Lastly, Callina said if someone in your neighborhood seems suspicious, or you get a weird note, you can contact police and ask them to take a look
