Unexpected Package from Amazon? Here’s What You Should Know

Package deliveryPhoto byRoseBox رز باکسonUnsplash

It’s all over the news, people are receiving unexpected packages from businesses like Amazon and other similar businesses. Is it a gift? Is it a reward? We all like receiving gifts and free things in the mail!

Unfortunately, it’s most likely a part of a larger problem referred to as a “Brushing Scam.”Washingtoniansare hearing the term, “Brushing Scam” of late and many are wondering what a brushing scam is. If you order frequently on sites like Amazon, you may not even realize you’ve been the victim of a brushing scam.

Here is how a brushing scam typically works. Amazon customers receive a package that they didn’t order. It contains a product of some type that they never ordered. It is likely addressed to them and it may also have a gift message making the package appear to be legitimate.

As the recipient, you may see the notification on your Amazon account that shows you ordered or purchased the product. No money is exchanged during this process. The entire scam is a part of a larger scheme that seeks to make it appear as if the customers are happy with this particular product by inflating the star ratings.

After the package arrives on your doorstep, someone, behind the scenes, that typically works for the company goes onto the sales page on Amazon portraying you and gives the product a raving review that puts the product in good light. They typically also give the item a 5 star rating and it will also state, “Verified Purchase.”

The goal of this entire scam is to make the company look great. Such orders are usually a low-cost item to help keep the costs down. The seller ships the product directly to your doorstep which makes it appear completely legitimate in the system.

What Should You Do If You Receive Unsolicited Packages

Keep track of what you order online and when you expect it. If you receive a package that you didn’t order and it’s in your name, be suspicious and contact the customer service on the platform that it originated from (Amazon, Ebay, other sellers) and report it.

You should also report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission who track fraudulent activities.

File a complaint with the Attorney General’s office in Washington State.

Make sure that you haven’t been the victim of an online data breach. If necessary, change your password and remove all of your banking information. It’s safer to type it into the proper field each time you order in lieu of having your personal banking information compromised.

Monitor all of your online accounts often and watch for unauthorized transactions.

Set alerts to email you whenever a purchase or change is made on your account.

Always be skeptical of online reviews. Check the sources and read other online comments in forums and other locations if you’re unsure of the validity of any online reviews.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, you’re not obligated by law to return or pay for such items, by reporting these scams you can help prevent them in the future.

There are many schemes out there, remain vigilant and protect yourself from being an unwitting accomplice in such fraudulent schemes. Have you ever been the victim of a brushing scam?

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