A growing trend known as “brushing scams” is catching consumers off guard, and it may have happened to you without even realizing it.
In a brushing scam, individuals unexpectedly receive unsolicited packages containing items they never ordered.
While the package might be addressed to the recipient, it often lacks a return address, or the return address is linked to an unfamiliar retailer.
These packages are usually sent by international third-party sellers who have gathered the recipient’s address from online sources.
The scammers’ goal is to use the recipient’s name to create fake positive reviews, giving the impression that the person is a verified buyer who is satisfied with the product.
This fraudulent review activity inflates the product’s ratings and boosts its sales, all with the hope of attracting more real customers.
Though this might seem harmless, it poses serious risks.
For one, your personal information may have been obtained through malicious means, leaving you vulnerable to future scams.
In addition, the fake reviews generated on these items could mislead other consumers into purchasing low-quality products.
Furthermore, some scammers might even use the recipient’s address for more sinister purposes, such as intercepting packages before they arrive at the home or committing other forms of fraud.
Law enforcement has outlined several precautions to safeguard your personal information if you fall victim to a brushing scam:
Tips to Protect Yourself:
- Do Not Pay for the Merchandise: If you receive unsolicited goods, don’t fall for any pressure to pay for them.
- Return to Sender: If the package is unopened and marked with a return address, you can write “RETURN TO SENDER” on it and send it back at no cost through USPS.
- Dispose of Unwanted Items: If you opened the package but don’t want the items, it is legal to dispose of them in the trash.
- Keep the Merchandise: If you opened the package and like the product, you are under no obligation to return it or pay for it.
- Change Your Account Passwords: It’s important to change your passwords if you suspect your personal data has been compromised.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your credit card bills and credit reports for any unusual activity.
- Notify the Authorities: If the unsolicited package contains organic items (such as seeds, food, or plants) or suspicious liquids, alert the relevant authorities for proper disposal.
- Contact the Retailer: If the package came from a major platform like Amazon or eBay, report the fraud on their website. Ask them to remove any fraudulent reviews linked to your name.
By following these steps, you can help protect yourself from the risks of brushing scams.
