Fraud Scheme in the US Using Unordered Packages
Brushing Scam on the Rise in the US
"You Should Treat Your Personal Information Like Cash"
Warnings are growing louder in the United States about a marketing scam known as the "Brushing Scam." This act, which means to brush off, is being used for personal information leaks and sales performance manipulation as competition between online shopping malls intensifies.
Warnings about the "Brushing Scam" are growing louder. This act, which means to brush off, is being used for personal information leaks and sales performance manipulation as competition between online shopping malls intensifies. Getty Images
According to Moneywise on June 29 (local time), the United States Postal Service (USPS) is warning Americans about a scheme known as "Brushing." While the packages may appear harmless, such as keychains, socks, or kitchen items, they could be a red flag that cybercriminals have stolen your name and address.
The Brushing Scam is a method in which third-party online sellers send unsolicited goods in order to boost product ratings and visibility. The sellers send cheap and low-value items to recipients using their real names and addresses, then leave fake reviews by impersonating the recipients.
Kelly McNulty, an inspector at the United States Postal Service, warned in an interview with KOB 4 News, "This type of scam occurs when customers receive packages containing low-cost items such as household goods." She explained, "These packages are often used by online retailers or third parties to create fake transactions using leaked personal information." In other words, receiving a package you did not order is a strong indication that your personal information may have already been leaked.
The recommended response is to report any unsolicited packages to the postal authorities. Afterward, you should check for any unusual activity in your online shopping, banking, and credit card accounts, and change your password on online shopping websites.
McNulty warned, "This is more than just a simple package," and emphasized, "You should treat your personal information like cash."
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