Beware of Brushing Scams: Unsolicited Packages on the Rise

Washington, D.C. — If you’ve received a package you didn’t order, you’re not alone. Reports of a growing phenomenon known as “brushing scams” are surfacing across the globe, leaving recipients puzzled and sometimes concerned.

These unsolicited deliveries, often containing inexpensive items like phone cases, electronics, or small household goods, may seem harmless at first. However, experts warn they are part of a deceptive marketing tactic aimed at boosting online sales rankings.

What Is a Brushing Scam?
In a brushing scam, sellers on e-commerce platforms send unsolicited packages to random recipients. They then create fake customer accounts and use these accounts to post glowing reviews of their products. The goal? To inflate their ratings and improve their product rankings on websites like Amazon, eBay, or Alibaba.

The packages often have little to no value and are shipped from international sellers, making them harder to trace. While you may not be charged for the items, your address and contact information were likely accessed without your consent, raising privacy concerns.

Why Should You Be Concerned?
Although the scam doesn’t cost recipients money directly, it raises significant red flags about personal data security. “If you’re receiving items you didn’t order, it’s possible your information was leaked or sold online,” said Lisa Franklin, a cybersecurity expert.

Unsolicited packages could also be a sign of identity theft or data breaches. Scammers could potentially use your name and address to commit further fraud.

What Should You Do If You Receive an Unordered Package?
If you receive an unsolicited package, follow these steps to protect yourself:

Do Not Use the Item: Avoid using or keeping the item, as it may encourage further deliveries.
Contact the Retailer: Notify the e-commerce platform or retailer about the incident. They may have protocols for reporting such scams.
Check Your Accounts: Monitor your online shopping accounts for suspicious activity, such as unauthorized purchases or new accounts in your name.
Report to Authorities: In the United States, you can report brushing scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local consumer protection agency.
Secure Your Information: Update your passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and consider identity theft protection services.

How to Protect Yourself from Brushing Scams
While you can’t always prevent unsolicited packages, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your information:

Limit Sharing Personal Information: Avoid oversharing your address, email, or phone number online.
Be Wary of Data Breaches: Regularly check if your information has been compromised using services like “Have I Been Pwned?”
Opt-Out When Possible: Use online privacy tools to remove your personal information from data brokers.

A Growing Global Problem
The brushing scam isn’t new, but its prevalence has increased with the rise of global e-commerce. Authorities worldwide are working to crack down on the practice, but the anonymity of online transactions and international shipping poses significant challenges.

“This scam exploits loopholes in e-commerce systems, creating a ripple effect of false reviews and consumer mistrust,” said Franklin. “The best defense is awareness and vigilance.”

As online shopping continues to dominate, experts urge consumers to remain cautious and report any suspicious activities. While receiving a surprise package might feel like a gift, it’s likely part of a larger scam that thrives on deception.