The brushing scam is a growing issue affecting online shoppers worldwide, involving unsolicited low-value packages sent to consumers.
What Is the Brushing Scam?
Brushing scams occur when third-party sellers send unrequested items to consumers. These packages typically contain cheap products and serve solely to generate fake five-star reviews. By doing so, sellers artificially boost their product visibility and sales rankings on major e-commerce platforms like Amazon.
Risks Associated with Brushing Packages
Many brushing scam packages contain QR codes that recipients are urged to scan. Postal inspectors warn that these QR codes can direct users to phishing websites or infect devices with malware. Engaging with these codes can compromise your digital security and personal information.
Why Are You Receiving These Packages?
Even if you never ordered the item, your name and address could have been misused or harvested from online data. This suggests potential personal data breaches or misuse linked to your digital footprint. Receiving unsolicited goods may indicate that your information is circulating in suspicious networks.
Key Steps to Protect Yourself
Consumers who receive unexpected products should follow specific precautions
- Do not scan any QR codes or interact with suspicious links included with the package.
- Do not return or dispose of the item irresponsibly. There's no obligation to send it back.
- Monitor your financial accounts and online shopping profiles for any unauthorized charges or unfamiliar activity.
- Report the incident to local law enforcement, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
How Reporting Helps
Filing reports helps authorities track and combat brushing scams. Coordinated efforts provide valuable data to e-commerce platforms and law enforcement, aiding in identifying fraudulent sellers and improving consumer protection measures.
Maintaining Online Privacy and Security
This scam highlights the importance of stringent privacy management. Regularly updating passwords, using two-factor authentication, and reviewing privacy settings on shopping accounts can reduce the likelihood of data exposure. Staying vigilant about suspicious packages and online account activity strengthens personal security.
The Role of E-Commerce Platforms
Platforms like Amazon are increasingly aware of brushing scams and invest in measures to detect fake reviews and block fraudulent sellers. Consumers who report brushing incidents contribute to improving these detection systems and foster a safer online marketplace.
Understanding the brushing scam empowers consumers to recognize suspicious activity and take appropriate steps to protect their personal data and shopping experience. Vigilance in managing online security reduces the impact of such deceptive schemes and promotes trust in e-commerce environments.