Brushing scams involve third-party sellers who send low-value goods to individuals whose names and addresses are often scraped from publicly available online sources. After the product is delivered, scammers use the recipient’s identity or create a fake account that resembles the recipient to leave positive reviews. These fake reviews can artificially boost a product’s credibility, helping it rank higher in search results and increasing sales.
While receiving a free item might seem harmless, the scam carries hidden dangers. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) warns that these incidents indicate misuse of personal information. Even more concerning is the potential for packages to include QR codes, which might direct recipients to malicious websites. Scanning such codes can result in the installation of malware or the theft of personal data.
The scam is a reminder that personal data is often accessible and can be exploited without a consumer’s knowledge. USPIS stresses the importance of not interacting with suspicious elements included in unsolicited packages. Inspector David Gealey noted that even though these items may appear insignificant, they are a signal that someone has unauthorized access to your personal information.
Fortunately, the package Simmons received did not include a QR code. Nonetheless, he took immediate action by checking his Amazon and banking accounts for any signs of unauthorized access. This kind of vigilance is exactly what USPIS recommends for anyone in a similar situation.
Authorities advise that recipients of such packages should not scan any QR codes or click on any related links. They also emphasize that there is no obligation to return unsolicited items. Instead, consumers should monitor their financial and e-commerce accounts for any suspicious activity and report the incident to local law enforcement, USPIS, or the Federal Trade Commission.
Though brushing scams may appear to be minor nuisances, they reflect deeper issues related to data privacy and cyber fraud. Staying informed and cautious can help consumers protect themselves from further harm and support efforts to hold malicious actors accountable.
