Can a USPS tracking number be fake? (The more you know….)
I ordered something on Etsy the other day and the tracking number provided doesn’t seem right.
This makes me wonder if the tracking number might be fake or if it’s just a bug.
We looked into it and here’s what we found…
Can a USPS tracking number be fake?
Unfortunately, it is now possible to forge shipping numbers for shipping, and this includes tracking numbers from USPS, FedEx, or UPS. To avoid falling into a tracking number scam, you can take some precautions.
This article explains USPS tracking numbers: what they are, what they look like, and how to tell if your tracking number is real.
What is a real USPS tracking number?
A legitimate tracking number is given to the package when it is shipped. They are used to identify the physical location of a package and predict delivery. Each number is a unique code printed as a barcode.
The sender (or recipient) of the package can scan or enter this code into the shipping service website to find out the delivery status of their package.
How are USPS tracking numbers used for scams?
When a commercial shopping site provides a tracking number at checkout, that tracking number will be associated with a legitimate tracking service such as FedEx, Amazon, USP, or USPS.
If the transaction is fraudulent, the tracking number is either fake or legitimate but will not be assigned to your purchase. Your “item” doesn’t actually exist and will be “delivered” elsewhere. Victims often notice that “items” are delivered even before the victim places an order.
Either way, the crooks will get your money and then blame the shipping service for the missing goods. Challenging this type of fraudulent transaction has proven very difficult.
How can I tell if a USPS tracking number is fake?
The only way to find out if a tracking number is fake is to use it for its intended purpose. In other words, submit the tracking number to the website of the carrier service you use.
If the number is true, information about your package will be displayed. If it is a fake number, there will be no information (or the tracking bar will not accept the number).
The United States Postal Service has a tracking number information page. On this page, you will first see the Tracking Number column.
You can also find a list of the different tracking number formats used by the USPS. You’ll notice that each service is in a different format. On this page, there is also information on where to find your tracking number and how to leave shipping instructions.
USPS now offers free Informed Delivery, which automatically tracks incoming packages with email alerts.
What if I think I have received a fake tracking number?
Experience shoppers advise shoppers to ask for website courier information early in the transaction.If USPS tracking, you can at least check your tracking number format should Received at checkout.
Then, if you enter that tracking number in the USPS website tracking bar and the return is invalid, you should call the company to cancel your order.
PayPal users have contributed to the forum on this issue, especially those who have been scammed in this way and dismissed the dispute because the missing package was shown as “delivered”.
One consultant said check exactly where your tracking number ends up by contacting the shipping company for the shipping address provided. You can use this information when requesting a refund through PayPal or your credit card company.
Want to learn more about USPS? Check out our related posts to find out whether USPS will repurchase unused stamps, whether USPS requires IDs, and how accurate USPS tracking is.
in conclusion…
Fake tracking numbers are another way scammers can take your money and shift the blame elsewhere.
If it happens to you, search online consultation forums as information about such scams is increasing.
Also remember to buy from reputable sites and check as soon as possible that your tracking number is legitimate.