At the Law Offices of Edward S. Clay, P.A. we offer Family Legacy™ Estate and Business Planning services.  We care about protecting the legacy of our clients and protecting their assets while alive and as inheritance for their loved ones.  This includes alerting our clients anytime we learn about popular scams.  We recently experienced the Brusing scam at our household, so we are writing to alert you!

See the attached image for an example of the package we received on our front porch.  In it was an inexpensive vinyl raincoat in a generic size, with no seller information or address.

What is Brushing? Brushing is a deceptive practice where sellers send unsolicited packages to individuals, often containing low-value items.  If the seller is identified, the goal is to create fake customer reviews to boost the seller’s ratings and visibility on e-commerce platforms.  These packages may arrive without any prior order or payment from the recipient.  Another example of brushing is when scammers send inexpensive items and affix a QR code on the package with no other identifiers, with the intent to steal your personal information, once you scan the code.  This was the kind of brushing we experienced.

Why is Brushing a Concern?

  • Privacy Violation: Your personal information, such as your name and address, is being used without your consent.
  • Potential Fraud: It could indicate that your personal data has been compromised, leading to further fraudulent activities.
  • Potential Theft:  Your bank information could be stolen and funds transferred out of your account.
  • Misleading Reviews: Fake reviews can distort the marketplace, making it difficult for consumers to make informed decisions.

How to Report Brushing Scams:

  • Contact the Retailer if Identifiable:
    1. Notify the e-commerce platform where the package originated. They often have specific procedures for handling such scams.
    2. For Amazon Packages:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=TrpVVzT0gyyuZn2ZNv
  • Report to Authorities:
    1. Contact the Better Business Bureau:  https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/20509-brushing-scam-indicates-a-serious-problem-for-victims
    2. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov or call 1-877-FTC-HELP.

 

What Else to Do:

  • Confirm the Sam:  Ensure that someone you know didn’t send you the package or that someone you know is missing a package they expected to receive.
  • Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your financial statements and credit reports for any unusual activity.
  • Secure Your Information: Change your passwords and consider using identity theft protection services.
  • Keep the Product(s):  Legally there is no harm to you in keeping the goods or product.

 

Stay Vigilant Always be cautious of unsolicited packages and take immediate action if you suspect you are a victim of a brushing scam. Protecting your personal information is crucial in maintaining your privacy and security.

If you want to protect your assets and leave what you want, to whom you want, the way you want, we’re here to help. Contact our team at Family Legacy™ Estate & Business Planning today to learn more.