Unauthorized actions relating to undelivered Amazon packages occur frequently
In the digital age, online marketplaces like Amazon have become a hub for shoppers worldwide. However, with the rise of e-commerce, so too has the potential for fraudulent activities. One such scam that has recently gained attention is the 'Brushing' scam.
The Brushing scam involves third-party sellers sending unsolicited items to random addresses, often with the intention of creating fake reviews in the recipient's name. These false reviews artificially inflate product ratings, increasing the visibility of the seller's products. The scammers purchase their own items and have them shipped to unsuspecting individuals, who may then find fake reviews posted under their name[1][2].
As customers, it's crucial to protect ourselves from such scams. Here are some steps you can take:
1. **Do Not Pay for Unsolicited Merchandise**: You are not obligated to pay for items you did not order. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), you do not need to pay for or return unsolicited merchandise[2].
2. **Notify the Retailer**: If you can identify the retailer involved, contact their customer support to report the incident and request that any fraudulent reviews posted in your name be removed[2].
3. **Review Your Accounts**: Check your online retail accounts for unfamiliar orders or charges. Regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions[2].
4. **Change Passwords**: Update your passwords to strong, unique ones for all e-commerce, bank, and credit card accounts. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible[2].
5. **Check Credit Reports**: Ensure there are no unusual changes or inquiries on your credit report. If needed, contact the credit bureaus to freeze your credit[2].
By following these steps, customers can effectively protect themselves from brushing scams and minimize potential financial and identity risks.
It's important to note that recipients of Brushing packages do not incur any financial damage, as there are no invoices. However, if you receive such a package, document it with photos and inform Amazon customer service[3]. The contents of these packages often include cheap knick-knacks like phone cases, kitchen gadgets, or no-name electronics[4]. Recipients can keep the goods they receive.
Sellers obtain the recipients' addresses from leaked databases or illegally bought address lists. This challenge in protecting address data online makes it difficult to completely eradicate such scams[5]. The perpetrators of Brushing scams often operate anonymously and outside of Europe[6].
Legitimate sellers on Amazon could be affected if the review system is compromised. If users no longer trust the review system, it could negatively impact the overall shopping experience[7]. It's essential for Amazon, as well as other online marketplaces, to continue their efforts in combating such scams to maintain trust and confidence among their customers.
References: [1] https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/06/amazon-cracks-down-on-brushing-scam-where-sellers-send-unsolicited-items-to-customers.html [2] https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0041-unsolicited-merchandise [3] https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/06/amazon-cracks-down-on-brushing-scam-where-sellers-send-unsolicited-items-to-customers.html [4] https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/06/amazon-cracks-down-on-brushing-scam-where-sellers-send-unsolicited-items-to-customers.html [5] https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/06/amazon-cracks-down-on-brushing-scam-where-sellers-send-unsolicited-items-to-customers.html [6] https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/06/amazon-cracks-down-on-brushing-scam-where-sellers-send-unsolicited-items-to-customers.html [7] https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/06/amazon-cracks-down-on-brushing-scam-where-sellers-send-unsolicited-items-to-customers.html
- In the realm of cybersecurity, the 'Brushing' scam is a concerning aspect of e-commerce technology, where fake reviews are created to artificially boost product ratings.
- As technology advances and online marketplaces like Amazon become hubs for general-news and crime-and-justice, it's essential for consumers to adopt proactive measures to safeguard their information and financial resources against such scams.
