Hello, everyone! I’m Daniel, your go-to renovation specialist. Normally, I focus on helping you navigate home improvement projects, but it’s also crucial to protect your household from scams of all kinds. After all, a secure home isn’t just about solid walls and a sturdy roof—it’s also about safeguarding your personal information.
Lately, there’s been a concerning trend involving mysterious, unordered packages arriving on people’s doorsteps. These parcels sometimes contain a QR code that scammers hope you’ll scan. Let’s talk about what this scam looks like, why it’s dangerous, and how you can protect yourself—and your home—from unwanted surprises.
Understanding the Scam: “Brushing” and QR Codes
1. Surprise Package You Didn’t Order
You might receive a package from a company you’ve never heard of, often with no clear return address. It could be anything—household items, novelty trinkets, even something like a box of pasta!
2. The Brushing Twist
This scheme, known as “brushing,” occurs when unscrupulous companies send products to random addresses. They then post fake, glowing reviews under your name to boost their product ratings and increase sales. You get a “freebie,” but the scammers are using your identity to give themselves positive publicity.
3. QR Code Danger
Lately, these packages may include a QR code with instructions to “verify” who sent the package or to “initiate a return.” Scanning the code often leads to a phishing site or downloads malware onto your device. This can put all your personal data—and potentially your finances—at risk.
Real-Life Examples
- Mystery Pasta Package
A homeowner assumed the delivered box of pasta was a gift. The enclosed QR code led to a site mimicking Amazon. After scanning, they noticed an uptick in scam emails—likely because the site harvested their information. - Unwanted Ring
Another consumer received a ring in the mail with a QR code attached. Suspicious, they checked BBB Scam Tracker and found similar brushing scam reports. They wisely decided not to scan the code.
Why You Should Be Concerned
Even if you don’t lose money immediately, these random packages signal that scammers may have your personal details—name, address, and more. As a renovation specialist, I know how critical it is to keep your information private. If scammers have access to your identity, they can disrupt everything from your credit standing to your ability to secure reliable contractors for future home projects.
Action Steps: What to Do if You Receive an Unordered Package
- Do Not Scan the QR Code
That code could lead to malware or phishing websites. Resist the temptation to “find out who sent it.” - Protect Your Identity
- If you did scan the QR code and provided any personal information, change your passwords immediately.
- Enable two-factor authentication on sensitive accounts.
- Keep a close eye on credit card statements and credit reports.
- Notify the Retailer
- If you identify the retailer (e.g., Amazon), go to their official website and report the package as a scam.
- Reputable companies take brushing scams seriously because they undermine consumer trust and review integrity.
- Check for Fake Reviews
- If you can trace the package to a specific company, look for reviews under your name.
- Report any fraudulent reviews to the retailer’s platform.
- Pause Deliveries if Overwhelmed
- Some victims get inundated with packages. If that happens, consider temporarily refusing deliveries.
- Direct legitimate orders to a package acceptance service or alternative address until the issue settles.
- You Get to Keep the Package
- According to the Federal Trade Commission, you aren’t obligated to return unordered merchandise.
- However, avoid returning it if the only instructions involve scanning a QR code—this could expose you further.
Extra Resources and Tips
- BBB’s Online Shopping HQ: Offers detailed advice on safe shopping and avoiding scams.
- BBB’s Article on Brushing Scams: A deep dive into how these scams operate.
- Shipping Fraud Alerts: Check FedEx, USPS, and UPS websites for updates on current scams targeting deliveries.
- Report Suspicious Deliveries: Visit BBB.org/ScamTracker to share your experience and help others recognize new scam tactics.
(Content contributed by BBB St. Louis.)
Stay Safe and Secure in Every Aspect of Home Life
As your renovation specialist, I always emphasize that your home isn’t just a physical structure—it’s a space you work hard to maintain, financially and emotionally. By staying vigilant against scams like brushing, you can keep your personal information (and your home) secure. If you ever feel unsure, connect with trusted resources or reach out to the Better Business Bureau for guidance.
Here’s to a safe, scam-free home!