Unsolicited packages showing up at your door might seem like a lucky break, but the Better Business Bureau is warning residents about the dangers of "brushing." The scam involves sending unordered items to unsuspecting recipients to exploit their personal information and post fake reviews online.
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Third-party sellers, often operating through platforms like Amazon, send these packages to appear as verified purchases, boosting product ratings and sales. The items, such as ping pong balls, face masks, or small electronics, are typically inexpensive and lightweight.
Amazon has addressed the issue, emphasizing that third-party sellers are prohibited from sending unsolicited packages. Customers who receive such deliveries should first confirm the item wasn’t sent by a friend or family member. If no one ordered the package, Amazon advises reporting it through their online form or Customer Service.
Amazon requests details such as the number of packages received, tracking numbers, and any additional relevant information to assist with investigations. The company takes action against violators, which may include suspending seller accounts, withholding payments, and cooperating with law enforcement.
The BBB warns that brushing scams poses risks beyond fake reviews. Receiving unsolicited packages could mean scammers have accessed personal information, such as names, addresses, or phone numbers. Porch pirates may also use the scam to monitor deliveries and steal packages before recipients retrieve them.
A consumer shared their experience through the BBB Scam Tracker: "A mysterious package was delivered to my home from a person I do not know, without me ordering any such package. When I tried to look up the return address, the search returned ‘brushing scam’ hits."
The BBB recommends reporting unsolicited packages to the retailer and taking steps to secure personal information. This includes monitoring credit card statements, reviewing credit reports for unauthorized activity, and updating online account passwords.
Recipients should also know that under Federal Trade Commission rules, they are allowed to keep unsolicited merchandise. However, caution is advised when dealing with items that arrive without explanation.
Unordered packages may seem harmless, but they could indicate a breach of personal information. Reporting incidents and taking proactive steps can protect your identity from further misuse.
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