You open your door and see a package sitting on your step. Your name is on the label, but you never placed an order. This is often how a brushing scam begins. These new types of scams usually involve unexpected deliveries, fake reviews, and misuse of your personal information.
While receiving a package you didn’t order might not seem dangerous, it can be a sign that someone is using your name or address without permission. Understanding how a brushing scam works can help you protect your privacy and avoid future issues.
Brushing Scam: My Own Experience
Admittedly, I am an Amazon addict… I order from there a lot. I’m actually known in my neighborhood for it 😩. Working from home, this is how I manage my shopping because I rarely have time to go out during the week.
And I actually experienced a brushing scam myself. A package arrived at my door that I never ordered. It was addressed to me and had postage from China, which immediately caught my attention since I live in Canada.
Inside the package were a few USB drives and some small phone accessories. There was no receipt, no order details, and no indication of who sent it. Because I hadn’t ordered anything and it wasn’t a gift, it raised red flags right away. I now suspect that I was targeted because I order from Amazon so often.
I decided not to keep or use any of the items. USB devices in particular can pose a security risk, since unknown drives could potentially contain malicious software. Plugging one into a computer or device could expose personal data without your knowledge.
Since there was no legitimate reason for me to receive the package, I threw the items away. It felt like the safest option, especially given the uncertainty around where it came from and why it was sent.
What Is a Brushing Scam?
A brushing scam happens when a seller sends unsolicited packages to random people. The goal is not to deliver useful items but to create fake verified purchases.
Once the item is marked as delivered, scammers use your name and address to post positive reviews. These fake reviews make products look more popular and trustworthy.
Because the item was technically shipped and delivered, the review appears legitimate. This helps dishonest sellers boost rankings on marketplaces.
Most victims of a brushing scam do not realize their information is being used until they receive unexpected deliveries.
How a Brushing Scam Works
A brushing scam usually follows a simple pattern. First, scammers obtain your name and address. This information may come from data breaches, public listings, or purchased marketing databases.
Next, they create a fake order using your details. The item shipped is often cheap and lightweight. Common examples include:
- Phone accessories
- Small household items
- Jewelry
- USB cables
- Random gadgets
Once the package is delivered, the seller posts a fake positive review tied to the shipment. This makes the purchase appear real and boosts their product credibility.
Over time, multiple shipments may be sent to different people as part of the same brushing scam.
7 Warning Signs of a Brushing Scam
The infographic below highlights the most common warning signs. Here are all seven signs explained in more detail.
You Receive a Package You Didn’t Order
This is the most obvious sign. If a package arrives addressed to you but you never purchased the item, it may be part of a brushing scam.
Even if the item seems harmless, it is still worth paying attention to.
The Sender Looks Unfamiliar
Many brushing scam packages come from unknown sellers or generic company names. The return address may be vague, incomplete, or from overseas.
If you cannot identify the sender, that is another red flag.
The Item Is Random or Low-Value
Scammers typically ship inexpensive products to reduce costs. You may receive something you would never normally buy, like a small accessory or unrelated item.
The product itself is not the point. The delivery confirmation is.
You Receive Multiple Packages
Some victims of a brushing scam receive more than one package. This can happen over weeks or months.
Repeated deliveries are a strong indicator that your address is being used.
The Package Contains No Order Details
Legitimate purchases usually include receipts or packing slips. A brushing scam package often has no paperwork inside.
The lack of order information is another clue.
You Notice Suspicious Reviews Online
Sometimes victims find reviews posted under their name or linked to their location. These reviews may praise products you never received or purchased.
This confirms your information is being used in a brushing scam.
You Never Shared Your Address With the Seller
If you have no relationship with the company, there is no reason they should have your details. Unexpected shipments from unknown sellers should always be treated carefully.
Is a Brushing Scam Dangerous?
In most cases, a brushing scam does not directly steal money from you. However, it still raises important privacy concerns.
Your personal information may be circulating in databases used by scammers. This can increase the risk of:
- Identity theft
- Phishing attempts
- Spam deliveries
- Targeted scams
While the item itself may be harmless, the underlying misuse of your information should not be ignored.
Scams like this are also a reminder that your personal information can circulate in places you don’t expect. Addresses, names, and even usernames can sometimes be pulled from online platforms and shared more widely than intended. If your kids use social apps, it’s worth understanding what information may be visible. This guide explains whether Zepeto is safe for kids and what parents should know.
What To Do If You Receive a Package You Didn’t Order
If you believe you are part of a brushing scam, there are a few simple steps you can take.
First, do not panic. Receiving the package does not mean your accounts are compromised.
Next, check your recent orders. Make sure no one in your household placed the order. Also, confirm that your accounts were not used without permission.
You can then report the incident to the retailer. Many major marketplaces have brushing scam reporting options.
It is also a good idea to monitor your accounts for unusual activity. Watch for unknown purchases or suspicious emails.
You do not usually need to return the item. In many places, unsolicited packages can legally be kept. However, you should avoid scanning QR codes or using unknown devices included in the package.
How To Protect Yourself From a Brushing Scam
While you cannot always prevent a brushing scam, you can reduce your risk.
- Limit how often you share your address online. Only provide it to trusted retailers.
- Use strong passwords for shopping accounts. This prevents unauthorized orders.
- Enable two-factor authentication when available. This adds another layer of protection.
- Be cautious with unexpected deliveries. Treat them as potential warning signs instead of surprises.
Be alert and review your purchases. Always.
Limiting the personal information you share online can also help reduce your risk. Addresses, school details, and location clues can sometimes be gathered from posts without realizing it.
This is especially important for families who share photos of their children online. This article explains what sharenting is and when it may cross the line.
Why a Brushing Scam Shouldn’t Be Ignored
A brushing scam may seem harmless at first, especially if you are not charged for the item. However, it still means your personal information is being used without your knowledge.
Unexpected deliveries can also introduce other risks, especially when unknown electronic devices, such as USB drives, are involved. Even small items should be treated cautiously if you did not order them.
If a package shows up at your door and you did not request it, take a moment to check where it came from and monitor your accounts. Staying aware is the best way to protect your privacy and avoid future issues.
If you have ever received a package you didn’t order, it may not just be a mistake. It could be part of a brushing scam, and recognizing it early can help you stay one step ahead. If you have experienced this, feel free to drop your story in the comments!
