What is a Brushing Scam?
You might receive a package you didn’t order and think, “What a pleasant surprise!” But beware—it could be part of a brushing scam. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe. A brushing scam is when scammers pretend to be online sellers and send unsolicited packages to random people. They:
- Create fake orders using real names and addresses.
- Send QR codes in the box, encouraging you to scan them for sender information or details about the product, which can lead to your information being stolen.
- Ship products to you without your consent.
- Post fake reviews under your name to boost their product’s ratings.
Why Risk is Here?
- Your Information Is Compromised: Scammers have access to your name and address.
- Fake Reviews Mislead Consumers: They make low-quality products seem trustworthy.
- Potential Fraud Risks: Your accounts or payment information could be misused.
How to Protect Yourself
- Don’t Scan Suspicious QR Codes: Scammers may include QR codes inside packages to steal your information. Avoid scanning any codes from unknown sources.
- Report Unsolicited Packages: Notify the retailer or delivery service.
- Check Your Online Accounts: Ensure no unauthorized activity and change your passwords if needed.
- Monitor Financial Statements: Look for unusual transactions and consider freezing your credit if necessary.
- Don’t Trust Reviews Blindly: Look for verified reviews and read feedback carefully.
Credit and Resources:
- Image Credit- Designed by johnstocker from Freepik. Link for author profile (https://www.freepik.com/author/johnstocker).