As holiday deliveries ramp up, authorities are issuing warnings about an increasingly common scam known as a “brushing scam.” This scheme involves receiving unsolicited packages, often containing random or inexpensive items, from unknown senders. While these surprise deliveries may seem harmless or even generous, they are often part of a broader fraudulent operation aimed at manipulating e-commerce systems.
Nancy Kowalik of Mullica Hill is one of the latest victims of this scam. Kowalik received an unexpected package containing a skincare gift set from an unknown sender. Initially puzzled, she later saw warnings from local police about brushing scams and realized she may have been targeted.
Brushing scams work by exploiting online retail platforms to create fake transactions and inflate product reviews. Fraudulent sellers send unsolicited items to random addresses, often using publicly available information, to appear as verified purchases. They then post glowing reviews under the recipient’s name to boost their product’s credibility and visibility on e-commerce platforms. This deceptive practice misleads potential buyers and undermines the integrity of online marketplaces.
The scam also raises concerns about the security of personal information. While recipients like Kowalik may not lose money directly, the presence of their address in these fraudulent transactions suggests their data has been accessed without consent. Authorities caution that this could indicate a larger breach or unauthorized use of personal details.
To protect yourself from brushing scams, experts recommend the following steps:
- Report unsolicited packages: Notify the retailer or platform listed on the package. Many e-commerce sites have systems to investigate fraudulent activity.
- Monitor your accounts: Regularly check bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.
- Change your passwords: Ensure your online shopping accounts and email are secure with strong, unique passwords.
- Do not engage with the sender: Avoid contacting the sender directly, as this could lead to further exploitation.
- File a report: If you suspect a brushing scam, report it to local authorities or consumer protection agencies.
Police departments across the country are emphasizing awareness, particularly during the holiday season when package deliveries are at their peak. They stress that while brushing scams may seem like a minor inconvenience, they can be indicative of larger issues, including data breaches and consumer manipulation.
As online shopping continues to grow, scams like brushing highlight the importance of vigilance and secure practices. Authorities urge consumers to remain cautious and report suspicious activity to help curb these deceptive tactics.
