12/17/2025
This the season for scammers!
Brushing Scam Reminder
What to do if you receive a package you didn’t order:
* Don’t scan QR codes. They might take you to a phishing site that steals your personal information or download malware onto your device.
* Protect your identity. If you did scan the QR code and enter personal information, change your passwords for any compromised accounts and enable two-factor authentication.
* Keep a close eye on your credit reports and credit card bills after you receive the package.
* Notify the retailer. If you can tell where the package is from, go directly to the retailer’s website to get their contact information and report the package as a scam. Retailers like Amazon have policies banning brushing and fake reviews, and they will investigate your report.
* Check for fake reviews. If you can identify the company that sent you the packages, look for false reviews in your name and report them to the retailer.
* Pause deliveries. One package is no big deal, but some targets of brushing scams are overwhelmed with a floor of unordered packages, creating a serious problem. If this happens, you may want to consider temporarily refusing package delivery at your home address and directing your real orders to a package acceptance service.
* Keep the package. The one silver lining of brushing scams is that you get to keep the gift – the Federal Trade Commission says you have a legal right to keep unordered merchandise. Don’t try to return it, especially if there are instructions to scan a QR code or enter information. It could needlessly compromise more of your personal information.
Credits: Better Business Bureau
