In recent months, residents across the country have reported receiving suspicious text messages from numbers with the 701 area code, which covers North Dakota. These messages often claim to be from trusted organizations like USPS, demanding immediate action. As scammers become increasingly sophisticated, understanding how to identify and protect yourself from these threats is crucial.
Overview of 701 Area Code Text Scams
The 701 area code scam follows a predictable pattern. Recipients receive text messages claiming to be from legitimate organizations, most commonly the United States Postal Service (USPS). These texts typically claim that a package delivery requires address confirmation or that there’s an issue with your delivery.
The message will include several red flags:
- It originates from a 701 area code number (North Dakota)
- It claims to be from a trusted organization like USPS
- It includes a suspicious link (often with unusual domains like “uspspsuilty.top”)
- It contains unusual instructions, such as replying “Y” or reopening the message
- It creates a sense of urgency, implying action is needed immediately
A recent example of such a message reads: “USPS: Your package is pending delivery. Please confirm your address by following this link: uspspsuilty.top. Reply Y and reopen message for more information.”
Why Scammers Use the 701 Area Code
Scammers aren’t choosing the 701 area code randomly. According to information from the North Dakota Attorney General’s office, there are several strategic reasons behind this choice:
- Spoofing Technology: As documented by North Dakota’s consumer protection resources, scammers use readily available “spoofing” technology to display fake 701 area code numbers, even hijacking real North Dakota phone numbers.
- Trust Building: Using a U.S.-based area code makes the message appear more legitimate, especially to recipients expecting communication from American organizations like USPS.
- Single State Coverage: Since 701 is the only area code covering the entire state of North Dakota, it’s easy for scammers to remember and use consistently.
- Lower Detection Rate: North Dakota’s smaller population means fewer people recognize the 701 area code as suspicious compared to more well-known area codes.
Variations of the 701 Text Scam
The scam has evolved over time, with scammers adapting their tactics to stay ahead of awareness campaigns. Current variations include:
1. USPS Package Notification
The most common version claims a USPS package needs address confirmation or has encountered a delivery issue. This scam is particularly effective because many people regularly receive packages, making the message seem plausible.
2. Canadian Customs Alerts
Some recipients report receiving texts claiming to be from Canadian Customs, stating that an international package is being held. These messages target people who live near the Canadian border or who regularly receive international shipments.
3. Toll Road Fee Collection
A newer variation claims unpaid toll road fees need immediate attention to avoid penalties. This version often coincides with actual toll road usage, making it seem legitimate.
4. Jury Duty Notifications
Similar to the phone-based jury duty scam documented by North Dakota authorities, text versions claim the recipient has missed jury duty and must respond immediately to avoid legal consequences.
The Real Dangers Behind These Texts
Clicking links in these messages can lead to serious consequences:
1. Identity Theft
The primary goal of many of these scams is identity theft. The links typically lead to convincing fake websites designed to collect personal information such as:
- Full name and address
- Social Security number
- Driver’s license information
- Date of birth
- Account login credentials
2. Financial Fraud
Some scam pages request payment information, claiming fees are required to release packages or resolve issues. Once scammers have your financial information, they can:
- Make unauthorized purchases
- Set up recurring payments
- Sell your information to other criminals
- Empty bank accounts
3. Malware Installation
Clicking these links may also trigger the download of malicious software that can:
- Track your keystrokes to steal passwords
- Access your contacts to spread the scam
- Lock your device and demand ransom (ransomware)
- Access your camera or microphone without permission
4. Tracking and Targeting
Even without providing information or downloading malware, simply clicking the link can give scammers valuable data:
- Confirmation that your phone number is active
- Your approximate location
- Device information that makes you vulnerable to future attacks
How to Protect Yourself from 701 Area Code Fake Texts
The North Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection division and the West Fargo Police Department’s C.O.P.S. Unit provide guidelines for recognizing and avoiding these scams:
Recognize the Four Signs of Scams
- Pretending: Scammers pretend to be from organizations you know and trust.
- Problem or Prize: They claim there’s a problem that needs immediate attention or a prize you’ve won.
- Pressure: They apply pressure to act immediately without time to think.
- Payment Method: They specify unusual payment methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Take Protective Action
- Never click links from unknown numbers or in suspicious messages.
- Independently verify by contacting organizations through their official websites or phone numbers (not those provided in the message).
- Report scam messages to your mobile carrier by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM).
- Block suspicious numbers after reporting them.
- Update your device regularly to protect against security vulnerabilities.
- Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts.
- Consider installing a mobile security app that can detect and block scam messages.
What to Do If You’ve Responded to a Scam Text
If you’ve already clicked a link or provided information:
- Disconnect your device from the internet immediately.
- Run a security scan using reputable antivirus software.
- Change passwords for any accounts that may have been compromised.
- Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
- Place a fraud alert with credit bureaus.
- Report the incident to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to your local law enforcement.
Why These Scams Are So Effective
Scammers are increasingly sophisticated in their approach. Many use psychological tactics that make their messages particularly convincing:
1. Coincidental Timing
Many victims report receiving these texts right when they’re actually expecting packages or have recently used toll roads. This is often coincidental—scammers send thousands of messages, and they’re bound to reach some people at just the right moment.
2. Exploiting Trust in Institutions
By impersonating trusted organizations like USPS, scammers leverage the authority and legitimacy of these institutions to lower people’s guard.
3. Creating Urgency
Messages often suggest negative consequences will occur without immediate action, preventing recipients from taking time to verify the communication.
4. Universal Services
Scammers target services almost everyone uses—mail delivery, toll roads, banking—increasing the chances their messages will seem relevant.
FAQs About 701 Area Code Scams
1. Is a text from a 701 area code legitimate?
Not all texts from 701 area codes are scams, but you should be cautious. The 701 area code legitimately covers North Dakota, and there are genuine businesses and individuals using this area code. However, scammers frequently use this area code through number spoofing technology. Be suspicious of unexpected texts from 701 numbers, especially if they claim to be from government agencies, shipping companies, or financial institutions and contain links or request personal information. When in doubt, contact the organization directly through their official website or phone number to verify.
2. How can I tell if a text claiming to be from USPS is legitimate?
USPS will never send text messages asking you to confirm your address via a link or request personal information via text. All legitimate USPS tracking can be done through the official USPS.com website or app. If you receive a text claiming to be from USPS, do not click any links. Instead, go directly to the USPS website or call their official customer service number to check your package status.
3. Why do these scams often seem to coincide with packages I’m actually expecting?
This is typically coincidental. Scammers send out thousands of messages daily, and given how common online shopping is, there’s a high probability their messages will reach people expecting deliveries. Some sophisticated scammers may also monitor public shipping data or purchase information from data brokers to increase their success rate.
4. I clicked a link but didn’t enter any information. Am I still at risk?
Yes, clicking links can still put you at risk even if you didn’t enter information. Some malicious links can install tracking cookies, collect device information, or even download malware automatically. If you’ve clicked a suspicious link, you should run a security scan on your device, update your operating system, and monitor your accounts for unusual activity.
5. Can scammers actually access my location or personal information just from me opening a text?
Simply opening a text message is generally safe, but clicking links within the message can reveal your IP address, which provides your approximate location. Modern smartphones typically ask for permission before websites can access your precise location, camera, or other sensitive features. However, sophisticated phishing sites may trick you into granting these permissions.
6. How can I report these scam texts to help prevent others from being victimized?
Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM), which reports them to your mobile carrier. You can also report scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, to your state attorney general’s office, and to the organization being impersonated (like USPS’s Email and Internet Office at [email protected]). These reports help authorities track and shut down scam operations.
As scammers continue to evolve their tactics, staying informed about current scams and practicing digital vigilance remains your best defense. Remember the advice from North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem: if you receive a suspicious message, “you should simply delete it – don’t call the scam artist back” – and certainly don’t click any links.
