FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist
It’s October 15th, but it feels like Christmas Day as you open your door to find a package on your porch. Exciting! But something is off; you didn’t order anything. You open it to find a dog toy, and a few days later you find another package — a small space heater. You’re scratching your head, wondering who sent it, why, and how? You may think “Am I the lucky winner of some secret contest?” Nope. Unfortunately, what you’ve won is a front-row seat to a brushing scam — and it’s not nearly as fun as it sounds.
Learn More: Find out how Xobee can safeguard your data from external threats
While it might feel like a harmless mistake or even a stroke of luck, these unsolicited packages could spell trouble. Someone out there is using your name and address to pull off a sneaky scheme, and the danger goes way beyond a pile of random stuff cluttering your doorstep. So, let’s break down why brushing scams are more than just an annoying mystery delivery and why you need to take action before it becomes a bigger problem.
What Is a Brushing Scam?
A brushing scam is when third-party sellers, usually from overseas, send you packages you never ordered. These scammers use your name and address to create fake online orders, ship a cheap alternative to the real deal (like a pack of seeds instead of a TV), and once the package arrives, they can mark the transaction as legitimate. Usually the package will contain a mysterious QR code that directs you to put in your information — DON’T!
Afterward, they post fake positive reviews for their product under your name, inflating their product ratings and credibility. The result? You’ve unintentionally become part of a shady scheme that helps scammers manipulate online marketplaces like Amazon.
And you thought getting random stuff was just a little quirky.
🎥 Video | CBS Mornings – YouTube
Why Is Brushing Dangerous?
Here’s the thing: if someone knows your address and personal details well enough to send you things, that’s a big red flag. It means they’ve likely gotten hold of your personal information somewhere along the way. While that might just seem annoying at first — getting junk you didn’t ask for — there’s a darker side. If these scammers have your address, what else do they know? And what could they use that information for?
What To Do If You’ve Been “Brushed”
So, you’ve received one of these unsolicited packages — now what? Luckily, there are a few easy steps to protect yourself:
- Report It
If the package came from Amazon or another well-known retailer, get in touch with their customer service right away. Amazon has strict rules against brushing scams and will investigate to ensure the sellers are penalized. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also advises to report these scams.
- Review Your Account Security
Change your passwords. Right away! This could be a sign that your personal data has been compromised. Make sure your accounts, especially shopping accounts, have strong, unique passwords. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible for added protection.
- Monitor Your Credit
Receiving a brushing package could be the tip of the iceberg. Keep an eye on your credit reports and banking activity. If scammers have your details, they might use them for more than just fake deliveries. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Keep the Stuff
Here’s a silver lining — under federal law, you’re allowed to keep any unordered merchandise sent to you. That Bluetooth speaker might not be so bad after all. But don’t get too attached — it’s better to focus on preventing future security risks than celebrating the freebie.
Xobee Networks: Your Partner in Cybersecurity
Brushing scams are just one of the many ways your personal information can be exploited online. At Xobee Networks, we take these threats seriously, which is why we offer a full suite of cybersecurity services to protect you and your business. From virus protection and spam filtering to cloud hosting and data restoration services, we’ve got your back.
Our team of IT consulting experts is here to ensure your systems are locked down, secure, and ready to fend off the latest threats. Whether you’re worried about phishing scams, brushing attacks, or data breaches, Xobee is your one-stop shop for all your business technology needs. Don’t wait for the next scam to show up on your doorstep — contact us today to protect your data and your business.
Xobee Networks now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.
Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks
