(COLORADO SPRINGS) — A staff member of the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) recently ordered an item online and a few days later, received a postcard that seemed legitimate but was part of a sophisticated scam, according to CSPD.
CSPD said a staff member recently ordered a desk, then got a postcard in the mail that featured the exact item they purchased. The postcard offered a refund if the person joined their VIP club. CSPD said it was convincing at first, but featured several red flags.
Inconsistent Branding
CSPD pointed to inconsistent branding, showing the Amazon logo was either outdated or used inconsistently, something a reputable company would rarely do.
Suspicious Offers
CSPD said to be cautious of unsolicited messages or mail inviting you to join a “VIP Club” or offering a refund. While some loyalty programs are legitimate, it is uncommon for trusted retailers to promote them like this, especially through third-party materials.
Dangerous Links
Never scan QR codes or visit websites provided in unsolicited mail, warned CSPD. Links can be gateways for hackers to steal your personal information or infect your device with malware.
Poor Language
Look closely for spelling errors, awkward grammar, or strange phrasing. CSPD said reputable companies take care to proofread communications, sloppy language is a common red flag.
Mismatch in Seller Information
Check your original order details and verify if the company name on the postcard matches the seller you purchased from. Major retailers like Amazon do not allow third-party sellers to use their logos or branding in unauthorized marketing, according to CSPD.
