A new scam is making its way across the country with over 1,000 reports to the Better Business Bureau. Have you ever received a package that you didn’t order?
There’s a good chance that you were a victim of the Brushing Scam. While we don’t know the origin of the name of the scam, we do know that it involves scammers sending people packages they didn’t order. Once the package is opened there is commonly a QR code to scan or a return address and instructions.
Regional Director of the Better Business Bureau in Springfield, Missouri says how the scam is carried out has changed over time.
“Initially happening folks were, they were using, these people were using it to create fake reviews, in another person's name. Which sounds innocent. But could mean that somebody has your personal information so maybe not as innocent as one originally thought.”
If you do receive a package that you haven’t ordered Pam recommends not scanning any QR codes, protecting your identity, including using two-factor authentication, and notifying the retailer that you received an unordered package.
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