Warning: Michigan Warns of new USPS Scam

Have you heard of the Informed Delivery service? It is a free United States Postal Service service that gives you a sneak peek at what's coming in your mailbox. Each morning, you get an email with scanned images of the letters on the way and tracking info for your packages.

Read More: FBI Warns Michigan Residents of New Package Scam

It's actually a pretty handy tool if you're waiting on bills, cards, or even just want to know if it is worth a trip to the mailbox.

How Scammers Are Exploiting the Service

Things can get sketchy with this system, though. Scammers have figured out how to game the system already. Thieves can sign you up for Informed Delivery without your knowledge. If they've already gotten hold of your personal information through a data breach or from a phishing scam, they can use that to pass the USPS verification process. Once they're in, they'll start receiving previews of your mail, which gives them what they need to swoop in and grab it before you do.

Why Mail Theft Is on the Rise

Complaints have jumped 300% in reports of mail theft, according to the Postal Inspectors. In 2023, stolen checks cost people hundreds of millions of dollars, and criminals are even going after carrier keys to break into multiple mailboxes at once.

How to Protect Yourself

There is some good news. The USPS has tightened security, making it harder for crooks to hijack the system. But the easiest way to protect yourself is simple. Just sign up first. You can head to USPS.com, verify your identity, and take control of your information in the Informed Delivery account.

You should watch those emails daily, and if something shows up in the preview that doesn't land in your box, you should report it immediately.