MILWAUKEE — The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning Wisconsinites about so-called “brushing scams.”

A brushing scam occurs when someone receives a package they did not order with no return address. These sometimes have QR codes with instructions telling the person to scan and find out who it came from or how to return it.

However, if you scan the QR code, it can lead to a phishing website or download viruses onto your device. 

What You Need To Know

  • Packages received in brushing scams often arrive without a return address. Illegitimate companies find your information online

  • Companies can post fake reviews on your behalf to benefit their store or get more sales

  • "Brushing scams" are also starting to contain a QR code

  • If you scan the QR code, it can lead to a phishing website or download viruses onto your device

The BBB said this scam is set up by illegitimate companies who find your information online. Since the product is shipped and contains no return address, many can also post a fake review on your behalf to benefit their store or get more sales.

While brushing scams have been around for a while, the QR codes attached to them are a new development. The BBB said in the last few months, it has received reports sent to the BBB Scam Tracker complaining about the QR codes.

One BBB Scam Tracker report described a woman who received a package of pasta in her name, from what she thought was Amazon. Thinking a friend could’ve sent a gift, she scanned the QR code. Ever since scanning the code, the woman reported receiving a higher-than-normal number of scam emails.

Even if you don’t scan or open the scam package, scammers may still have your personal information, the BBB warned. That’s why the BBB recommended checking the security of your accounts and notifying the retailer who sent you the package.

The BBB shared the following tips for receiving a package you didn’t order:

  • Don’t scan QR codes
  • Protect your identity: If you entered any personal information, change your password for compromised accounts and enable two-factor authentication. Keep an eye on your credit reports and credit card bills after you receive the package
  • Notify the retailer: If you know the retailer based on the package, go directly to their website and report a scam. Retailers with scamming policies will investigate your report
  • Check for fake reviews: Look for false reviews in your name and report them to the retailer
  • Pause deliveries: One package may not be an issue, but if you find yourself overwhelmed with unordered packages, consider temporarily refusing package delivery to your home address
  • Keep the package: There is a bright side in all of this. The Federal Trade Commission said you have the legal right to keep the package

For more information on shopping safely, click here. 

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