How to Identify Counterfeit Stamps: A Collector’s Guide
Counterfeiting of modern United States forever stamps has become a significant issue, with an exponential increase in fake stamps in 2021. To combat this problem, Scott catalog editors have published the 2023 Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Counterfeits, which serves as an essential reference for collectors and users of postage stamps.
The catalog is divided into sections for postal counterfeits, nonpostal and revenue counterfeits, and denominated and earlier counterfeits. The catalog does not include forever or postcard-rate counterfeits from 2007 to the present. The increase in counterfeit stamps has led to a 97-page catalog, with ongoing reports of new counterfeits being discovered.
Key Takeaways:
- Counterfeiting of modern United States forever stamps has become a significant issue.
- The 2023 Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Counterfeits is a valuable resource for collectors and users of postage stamps.
- The catalog covers various types of counterfeits but excludes forever or postcard-rate counterfeits from 2007 to the present.
The Problem of Counterfeit Stamps
The counterfeiting of United States forever stamps has reached alarming levels, with most new stamp issues being faked. Scott catalog editors have taken note of this problem and have included information about known counterfeit stamp issues in footnotes within the Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps and Covers.
The increase in counterfeit forever stamps has necessitated the publication of a separate catalog dedicated to counterfeits, as well as the inclusion of these counterfeits in the U.S. Specialized digital catalog. The counterfeiting issue has become so prevalent that the U.S. Postal Inspection Service has provided guidance on identifying counterfeit postage and has emphasized the importance of purchasing stamps from approved vendors only.
Counterfeit stamps can be virtually indistinguishable from genuine ones, making it crucial for collectors and stamp users to be aware of this growing problem. By consulting authoritative references such as the Scott catalog, collectors can stay informed about known counterfeit stamp issues, enabling them to make informed purchasing decisions and avoid falling victim to counterfeit scams.
Identifying Fake USPS Postage Stamps
Scammers have been targeting online shoppers through platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and eBay, offering heavily discounted USPS postage stamps. These posts, advertising bulk quantities of Forever Stamps at a significant discount, are rarely legitimate.
The United States Postal Inspection Service advises consumers to be cautious when purchasing postage online and recommends purchasing stamps only from approved vendors, such as big box retailers and warehouses with permission from the Postal Service.
The USPS has introduced a search function on their website that allows consumers to find approved postal providers. Additionally, they have changed their protocol to treat mail containing fraudulent postage as “abandoned” as of April 1, 2023, potentially impacting couples who unknowingly used counterfeit postage for their wedding stationery.
Difficulty in Spotting Counterfeit Stamps
In the past, spotting counterfeit stamps was relatively straightforward due to their poor graphic quality and inferior die-cutting. Genuine stamps had sharp edges and fine-resolution graphics, making them easily distinguishable from fakes. However, scammers have evolved their techniques and are now able to match the graphic quality and trimming of genuine stamps, making it increasingly difficult for the average consumer to identify counterfeits.
Scammers have gone to great lengths to mimic the visual characteristics of genuine USPS Forever Stamps. They have even added their own fluorescent tags to replicate the signature fluorescent dye used by the USPS. This meticulous attention to detail has made it virtually impossible for untrained eyes to differentiate between a genuine USPS Forever Stamp and a counterfeit one.
To illustrate the challenge in identifying counterfeit stamps, take a look at the image below:
As you can see, the counterfeit stamp on the right is virtually indistinguishable from the genuine stamp on the left. The graphic quality, color, and overall design of the counterfeit stamp have been meticulously replicated, making it extremely difficult to spot without specialized equipment or expertise.
To combat this growing problem, collectors and users of postage stamps are encouraged to stay informed about the latest counterfeiting techniques and follow the guidelines provided by the United States Postal Inspection Service. By staying vigilant and seeking expert assistance when in doubt, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to counterfeit stamp scams.
Next, we’ll explore some practical tips for avoiding counterfeit postage scams and ensuring that you purchase genuine USPS postage stamps.
Stay tuned!
Tips for Avoiding Counterfeit Postage Scams
When it comes to purchasing postage online, avoiding counterfeit scams is crucial. To ensure authenticity and protect yourself, it is highly recommended to use the official USPS Postage Store. This guarantees that you are buying genuine US postage stamps and reduces the risk of falling victim to counterfeit postage scams.
It is also important to stay vigilant and be cautious of false advertisements on social media platforms and online marketplaces. Avoid offers that promise bulk quantities of stamps at significantly discounted prices, as these are often clear signs of potential scams.
The USPS has now made it easier for consumers to find approved postal providers through their search function. By using this tool, you can locate contract postal units and national retailers that have the necessary permission from the Postal Service to sell real US stamps. This is another effective measure to avoid purchasing counterfeit postage online.
If you have any doubts or concerns about the legitimacy of a postage offer, it is always advisable to visit your local post office. They can provide assistance and ensure that you are obtaining genuine stamps for your postage needs.
Remember:
Only trust official USPS sources, such as the USPS Postage Store, when purchasing stamps online. Be skeptical of advertisements offering bulk quantities of stamps at steep discounts on social media platforms and online marketplaces. Use the USPS search function to find approved postal providers. When in doubt, visit your local post office.
By following these tips and being cautious while purchasing stamps online, you can help protect yourself from falling victim to counterfeit postage scams and ensure that your mail reaches its intended destination without any issues.
Postal Officials’ Warning and Escalation of Counterfeit Stamps
Postal officials have issued warnings about the escalating sale of counterfeit stamps through social media, e-commerce platforms, and third-party vendors. With advancements in printing technology, scammers have found it easier to produce fake postage stamps, targeting unsuspecting individuals who still send greeting cards during the holidays. These counterfeit stamps are often sold in bulk quantities at a discounted price, making them appear attractive to buyers. Unfortunately, the counterfeiters frequently choose popular stamp designs, such as the first-class Forever stamp, to maximize their profits.
The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) acknowledges the serious threat posed by counterfeit stamps and advises consumers to exercise caution and be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true. As the agency responsible for safeguarding the postal system, the USPIS investigates and combats crimes related to the mail, including the counterfeiting of stamps and postal documents.
To protect yourself from falling victim to counterfeit stamp scams, it is crucial to purchase stamps from trusted sources. The USPIS strongly recommends buying stamps only from authorized USPS vendors, such as post offices, contract postal units, and approved retailers. By purchasing stamps from these legitimate sources, you can ensure that the stamps you receive are genuine and meet the required postage standards.
Identifying Fake Stamp Websites and False Advertisements
Scammers are becoming increasingly clever in their attempts to deceive consumers. Not only do they create fake stamp websites that appear legitimate, but they also use false advertisements to lure unsuspecting buyers. It’s crucial for collectors and stamp enthusiasts to be aware of these tactics and stay vigilant when purchasing stamps online.
One common technique employed by scammers is to create websites with misspelled or altered addresses that closely resemble legitimate stamp-selling sites. For example, websites like uspsstam.com, UUStamps.com, or uspssts.com may appear genuine at first glance, but they can be easily identified as fake.
Additionally, typos and oddities in communications can serve as red flags. If you come across emails or messages from suspicious support teams, such as the “qijiuzhongfu Support Team,” exercise caution. Legitimate sellers and service providers would not make such glaring mistakes.
“If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always be skeptical of deals that promise steep discounts or exert undue urgency to buy, as these are common tactics used by scammers.”
If you encounter any fake stamp websites or come across false advertisements, it’s essential to report them immediately. The United States Postal Inspection Service has a hotline and website where you can report these scams and provide valuable information that can help authorities take action against scammers. Reporting such instances not only protects yourself but also assists in safeguarding other potential victims from falling into the same trap.
To help you identify fake stamp websites and advertisements, take a look at the following image:
Examples of Fake Stamp Websites:
- uspsstam.com
- UUStamps.com
- uspssts.com
Remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the United States Postal Inspection Service. By staying informed and attentive, you can protect yourself and others from falling victim to fake stamp websites and false advertisements.
Consequences of Using Counterfeit Stamps
Using counterfeit stamps has serious consequences both legally and in terms of personal security. Knowingly sending mail with counterfeit stamps is illegal and can result in penalties if detected by the postal service. The mail may be returned to the sender or turned over to the postal inspection service for further investigation.
However, the consequences extend beyond legal implications. When individuals use counterfeit stamps, they risk their personal data and payment information falling into the hands of scammers. This puts them at risk of identity theft and potential fraudulent purchases made without their knowledge or permission.
To protect oneself and others, it is crucial to only use genuine stamps purchased from authorized vendors. By doing so, individuals can avoid the legal and security risks associated with counterfeit stamps, ensuring the integrity of their mail and personal information.
Importance of Purchasing Stamps from Approved Vendors
The United States Postal Inspection Service emphasizes the importance of purchasing stamps from approved vendors to avoid falling victim to counterfeit stamp scams. By purchasing stamps from these approved vendors, individuals can ensure that they are receiving genuine US stamps and avoid the risks associated with counterfeit postage. These approved vendors include big box retailers and warehouses that have the express permission of the Postal Service to offer small discounts on postage.
It is crucial to be vigilant when purchasing stamps online and to avoid false advertisements on social media platforms, such as Facebook and eBay, that offer bulk quantities of stamps at significantly discounted prices. These ads are often red flags for potential counterfeit stamp scams. Instead, consumers should refer to the official USPS website to find a list of approved postal providers, categorized as Contract Postal Units and National Retailers. These approved vendors have been authorized by the Postal Service to sell genuine US stamps, ensuring the authenticity and validity of the postage.
By following the guidelines set forth by the United States Postal Inspection Service and purchasing stamps from approved vendors, individuals can protect themselves from falling prey to counterfeit stamp schemes, contributing to the reduction of counterfeit stamps in circulation.
Reporting Counterfeit Stamp Scams
If you come across any counterfeit stamp scams, it is crucial to report them to the United States Postal Inspection Service hotline at 877-876-2455 or through their online reporting system. Prompt reporting plays a vital role in helping authorities take action against scammers and protect potential victims. To ensure an effective report, provide as much information as possible, including the website or platform where the scam was encountered. By reporting these scams, you can contribute to the fight against counterfeit stamps and safeguard the stamp collecting community.
Conclusion
Counterfeit stamps pose a significant threat to collectors and users of postage stamps. The increase in fake stamps in circulation has made it crucial for individuals to stay informed about the latest scams and follow the guidelines provided by the United States Postal Inspection Service.
The 2023 Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Counterfeits serves as a valuable resource for identifying counterfeit stamps. By consulting this collector’s guide, stamp collectors can make informed decisions and safeguard their philatelic collections from fake stamps.
To further combat the prevalence of counterfeit stamps, it is essential to be vigilant and only purchase stamps from approved vendors. By doing so, stamp collectors and users can minimize the circulation of counterfeit stamps and contribute to preserving the integrity of the postal system.
