Beware of Brushing Scams: A Hidden Threat to Shoppers

As online shopping surges during holidays and sales events, cybercriminals are finding creative ways to exploit unsuspecting consumers. One such deceptive tactic is the brushing scam, where unsolicited packages show up at your doorstep. While receiving free items may seem like a win, brushing scams can pose serious risks to your privacy and security.

What Is a Brushing Scam?

A brushing scam occurs when online sellers or scammers send packages to unsuspecting people as part of a fraudulent scheme. Here’s how it works:

• Sellers purchase their own products under a fake account using your address.
• The package is sent to you to create a record of a “verified purchase.”
• They leave glowing fake reviews under your name, boosting their product’s ranking.

Brushing scams exploit your personal information, including your name, address, and sometimes more sensitive details.

Real-Life Examples of Brushing Scams

Engagement Rings and High-Value Items
Victims report receiving fake or low-quality jewelry, such as engagement rings, they never ordered. Scammers use these items to inflate reviews on e-commerce sites. While the package may seem harmless, the fact that scammers know your address is concerning.

Additionally, QR codes often accompany these items, suggesting you “register” the ring. However, these codes can lead to phishing websites designed to steal sensitive information you enter, such as personal or financial details.

Unordered Amazon Packages
Amazon shoppers have reported receiving random items like electronics, toys, or household goods they never purchased. In many cases, the sender remains anonymous, making it difficult to trace the origin.

Why Brushing Scams Are Dangerous

While these scams may seem like minor annoyances, they can indicate larger privacy or security issues:

1. Exploitation of Personal Data
   • Your personal details, like your name and address, are being misused. This could signal a data breach or unauthorized sharing of your information.
2. Fraudulent Product Reviews
   • Fake reviews skew the marketplace, making it harder for legitimate products to compete and misleading future buyers.
3. Potential Identity Theft
   • Brushing scams often stem from stolen customer data. If scammers have your address, they may have other sensitive information, increasing the risk of identity theft.
4. Device Compromise
   • Your device might be attacked with malware when you visit a website by scanning a QR code left in the package as the only identifiable way of learning the sender.  Curiosity in this case, just might get the best of you and lead to harmful outcomes.

How to Protect Yourself from Brushing Scams

If you’ve been targeted by a brushing scam, follow these steps to protect yourself:

1. Verify Your Accounts
   • Check your online shopping accounts for unauthorized purchases or activity.
   • Change your passwords immediately if anything seems suspicious.
2. Report Unsolicited Packages
   • Notify the retailer (e.g., Amazon) about the unsolicited package.
   • Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local consumer protection agency to report the scam.
3.  Be Cautious with Your Data
   • Avoid oversharing personal details online, including on social media
   • Use a secure password manager to create unique, strong passwords for every account.
4.  Monitor for Identity Theft
   • Check your bank and credit card statements regularly for any unauthorized transactions.
   • Consider using identity theft protection services for added security.
5. Don’t Engage
   • Avoid using or keeping items sent by brushing scammers. Doing so could be seen as accepting the fraudulent transaction.

Why Awareness Matters

Brushing scams are becoming increasingly common as e-commerce continues to grow. While these scams may appear harmless, they reflect larger issues with data misuse and online fraud. Understanding these schemes and how to respond can help protect your personal information and ensure safer online shopping experiences.

Conclusion: Stay Alert, Stay Safe

The rise of brushing scams is a reminder that not all unsolicited gifts are harmless. By staying informed and proactive, you can protect yourself from privacy breaches and fraudulent activity. As Cyber Monday and holiday shopping peak, double-check your accounts, monitor your packages, and stay alert to keep your personal information secure.

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Additional Reading:

• The U.S. Sun: JUNK MAIL ‘Creepy feeling,’ cry Amazon shoppers receiving packages they didn’t order – steps to take if you’re a ‘brushing’ victim
• Brides.com: USPS Warns of Engagement Ring “Brushing” Scam Amid Cyber Monday Shopping
• Amazon, Walmart, and Other Online Shopping Sites Hit with Brushing Scams