Why exactly shouldn't one check tracking codes?

I understand that there is something regarding plausible deniability (?), but why couldn't I theoretically check on the tracking code with an IP from Europe, or even from the same country, but at my local library, or with an IP from a different city in the same province?

I totally understand why to not use Tor to check it, because then that's just weird for the postal service, if they check the IP and metadata.

Just wondering how other people feel about checking the tracking code, even though one would know that the order will most likely get delivered? I might also note that I'm in no rush to get my order, I just like keeping track of things.


Comments


[7 Points] Vendor_BBMC:

Of course you should check it. If they've found drugs in your envelope they don't need your router's IP address to know where you live. Its on the envelope.

And just in case you didn't think it through - the destination address is on the tracking ticket, because its POSTAL tracking.

My only rule is that I don't give the tracking details to domestic customers unless its late. Any man-in-the-middle reading our conversation could track and intercept all of a vendor's packages if the tracking details are routinely given out.

I've only had to give out a tracking number once. We were both trying to read the unreadable signature online, when his housemate tapped him on the shoulder and said "hey, thats my signature! Oh yeah, there's a package for you"


[3 Points] throwahooawayyfoe:

People are paranoid. It makes zero difference to LE whether you check the tracking or not.


[5 Points] None:

In america, the law only works if you can afford it. If you cant, you are guilty.


[1 Points] CentralCoppingAgency:

You are right, it all comes down to plausible deniablity, although you can safely check the tracking number by using tor or a vpn service. I think a lot of the worry over tracking numbers comes from vendors, who just don't want to send out hundreds of tracking numbers. With or without the tracking number, the package should be on its way.

If your house is clean and you get a controlled delivery, It's possible LE could show you knew the package was coming since you checked the tracking number, but I find the scenario where checking the tracking number was the difference between freedom and jail a little unlikely.

In all honesty, there is just no benefit to knowing the tracking number unless there is a dispute over shipment. Maybe knowing the tracking number makes some people feel better, but there is still no way to confirm the contents and it's just not worth the vendors effort to share it.


[1 Points] Theeconomist1:

I'm the same way, in a sense I would like to see the tracking number mainly so I know which day to wait by the mailbox. I get excited and end up wasting an afternoon waiting for my chronically late mailman. IF I had the tracking, I guess I could not waste multiple afternoons when a pack is late. LOL.

I think there are 3 angles on the paranoia around tracking numbers. One is regarding vendor security. This could be the number is intercepted or somehow obtained by LE. The second is there is a theory that the postal service might flag a package if the tracking is looked over TOR or even if someone looks at the tracking "too much." Don't think that's happening personally. This would be an expensive endeavor to divert packages b/c of those suspicions. The third is mostly consumer focuses which as you mention is the plausible deniability. This could be problematic but worst case, if it gets to the point you are arrested, they have more evidence and looking at the tracking isn't going to make much of a difference b/w guilty vs. not guilty.

While I would like to have tracking with my package, I think its better for vendors to not provide it. In the end, its mostly psychological, it doesn't impact much of anything in terms of reliability.