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  Geebo 9:01 am on December 19, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: brushing scam ( 24 ), mail fraud ( 22 ), qr codes, Scams ( 1,386 )   

  Understanding the Nationwide Brushing Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Brushing scams are a growing concern across the nation, particularly as the holiday season brings an uptick in parcel deliveries. These scams involve receiving unordered packages, often containing small gifts such as jewelry, electronics, or other items. While these packages may seem harmless or even generous, they are typically part of a larger scheme designed to manipulate online marketplaces and deceive consumers.

  The essence of brushing scams lies in using unsuspecting recipients as unwitting participants in fake product reviews. Scammers send products to random addresses to create a record of delivery. This allows them to post fraudulent reviews under the recipient’s name on platforms like Amazon or eBay, falsely bolstering the reputation of third-party sellers. The goal is to make products appear more popular and trustworthy than they truly are.

  An alarming trend within this scam involves QR codes included with the packages. These codes often invite recipients to scan them to ‘confirm delivery’ or to find out more about the sender. Scanning such a code can redirect individuals to potentially malicious websites, prompting them to download apps or provide sensitive information. While scanning the code itself does not inherently compromise devices, the actions taken afterward, such as granting permissions or entering personal details, can put individuals at risk.

  The unsolicited nature of the packages is a key red flag. Authorities recommend not scanning any QR codes from unknown sources and refraining from engaging with the content or contact information provided in the package. Instead, consumers are advised to check their accounts for unusual activity, such as unauthorized purchases or changes to account details.

  Brushing scams are not confined to any specific region; reports have surfaced across the United States, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue. This underscores the importance of being cautious and staying informed. If you receive an unexpected package, it is critical to exercise restraint and avoid interacting with any prompts it contains. Contacting the retailer listed on the shipping label can provide further clarification and help mitigate the risk of similar incidents in the future.

  To enhance personal security, it is recommended to regularly monitor online accounts for suspicious activity and update passwords periodically. While receiving an unexpected gift might initially seem like a pleasant surprise, it is important to recognize the potential risks and take appropriate measures to safeguard personal information. Staying informed is the best defense against scams like these, which continue to exploit unsuspecting consumers nationwide.

   

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  Geebo 9:00 am on November 20, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: brushing scam ( 24 ), diamond ring, jewelry ( 2 ), qr codes, Scams ( 1,386 )   

  Diamond in the Mail Leads to New Brushing Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Imagine opening your mailbox and finding an unexpected package. Inside is a dazzling piece of jewelry, perhaps a diamond ring, along with a card inviting you to “register your precious gem.” This was the experience of a woman from Pittsburgh, who recently found herself at the center of a strange and unsettling scam.

  She opened the package to find what appeared to be a beautiful diamond ring. Confused, she wondered if the delivery had been sent to the wrong address. The package looked legitimate, complete with her name, address, and an official-looking USPS barcode. Along with the ring, there was a card explaining how to register the item, accompanied by another card with a QR code.

  At first, it seemed like an honest mistake, but her instincts told her something was off. Despite rarely shopping online, she was cautious. The ring looked valuable, but why would anyone send her such an item unsolicited? Trusting her gut, she decided not to scan the QR code or register the product, a decision that likely saved her from falling victim to a scam.

  This experience is part of a larger phenomenon called the brushing scam, a growing scam spreading across the country. Scammers send unsolicited items to random people, using their addresses to post fake positive reviews on online marketplaces. The QR code included in these packages often leads to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal or financial information.

  The Pittsburgh woman’s experience is a textbook example of how these scams operate. The seemingly luxurious item is meant to entice the recipient into engaging further, whether by scanning a QR code or providing personal details on a fake website. Fortunately, her caution prevented her from falling into the trap, but not everyone may be as wary.

  QR codes, while convenient, can be as dangerous as phishing links if they come from an unverified source. Scanning them without knowing their origin could lead to malware, identity theft, or financial fraud. It’s a reminder that in today’s digital age, trust must be earned.

  The United States Postal Service and other consumer protection agencies have warned about the dangers of brushing scams. They advise anyone who receives unsolicited items to avoid following any instructions provided, particularly those involving QR codes or registration websites. Instead, report the package to local postal authorities or consumer protection organizations.

  For those who find themselves in a similar situation, the advice is clear: if you didn’t order it, don’t trust it. Whether it’s a fake diamond ring or another enticing item, these unsolicited packages are designed to manipulate and exploit. Trusting your instincts can help protect you and others from falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated schemes.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 20, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: brushing scam ( 24 ), identity theft ( 108 ), malware ( 26 ), qr codes, Scams ( 1,386 )   

  The Evolving QR Code Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Across the United States, a new scam is making waves, capitalizing on modern technology and targeting unsuspecting victims in their homes. This scam, which revolves around unsolicited packages and QR codes, has been reported in multiple regions, from Ohio to Mississippi, and is showing no signs of slowing down.

  The scam starts innocently enough as an unexpected package arrives at your door, often containing an item like jewelry, gadgets, or other small electronics. There’s no return address or clear indication of who sent it. Inside, a small QR code invites you to scan it for more information about the ‘gift’ or to register the item. But beneath this seemingly harmless gesture lies a potentially dangerous ploy.

  When scanned, the QR code can deliver malicious software directly to your smartphone or computer. The goal is often to steal sensitive data, such as banking information, personal details, or passwords, allowing scammers to access your financial accounts or even your identity. The damage can be swift and severe, with victims reporting emptied bank accounts and compromised personal data.

  This scam is a more dangerous variation of the traditional brushing scam. In the original version, companies would send unsolicited packages to generate fake positive reviews. However, this new version takes it a step further, using technology to infiltrate personal devices and steal valuable information. The unsolicited items may now come with the hidden threat of malware or identity theft, making this a serious issue nationwide.

  What makes this scam particularly concerning is how easy it is to fall for. QR codes have become increasingly common in everyday life, used for everything from restaurant menus to product registration. Scammers exploit this familiarity by enticing victims to scan the code, unaware of the potential risks.

  Reports of this scam have surfaced in various states, signaling that this is not a localized issue but a national problem. As the scam spreads, its potential to cause widespread harm grows, especially when the holiday season approaches and package deliveries increase. During this time, people are more likely to receive unexpected packages and might be less cautious when interacting with them, which plays right into the scammers’ hands.

  To protect yourself from this scam, there are a few important steps to keep in mind. First and foremost, if you receive a package you didn’t order, resist the temptation to scan any QR codes included with it. Even if the item seems harmless or intriguing, interacting with these codes could lead to severe consequences.

  Reporting these packages is also crucial in alerting authorities and preventing future victims. Whether through online retail platforms or local consumer protection agencies, flagging suspicious packages can help others stay informed and protected.

  As scams like these evolve, the need for public awareness becomes even more critical. With the rise of QR codes as a convenient tool for consumers, scammers are finding new ways to exploit technology and manipulate people into handing over their private information. Educating others, and spreading the word about potential dangers, can make a significant difference in combating this growing national threat.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 31, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Amazon ( 108 ), brushing scam ( 24 ), qr codes, Scams ( 1,386 )   

  New brushing scam adds QR code component 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The brushing scam is a type of fraud where sellers on e-commerce platforms, like Amazon, send unsolicited packages to individuals to create fake positive reviews. People receive packages containing random, inexpensive items they did not order. Scammers use the recipient’s name and address to create fake accounts, making it seem as though the recipient purchased the item. They then write positive reviews under these fake accounts, boosting the product’s ratings and visibility.

  This increase in visibility makes the product appear more popular and credible, which in turn increases its sales. Although the recipients of these packages are not directly financially affected, their personal information is being misused, which can be concerning.

  A police department in Georgia has reported that some scammers have added a more malicious twist to the brushing scam. According to the Thomasville Police Department, recipients not only receive random, inexpensive items, but also a QR code instructing them to register their new product. Scanning this QR code can download a malware virus onto your phone, giving scammers access to sensitive data stored on your device.

  If you receive an unexpected package, think twice before interacting with any included instructions or QR codes. Instead, change your account passwords immediately, as your information may have been compromised. Closely monitor your accounts and credit reports for any suspicious activity. Notify the authorities to report the scam. Lastly, try to inform the retailer about the fraudulent activity.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 6, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: phishing ( 77 ), qr codes, quishing, Scams ( 1,386 )   

  New QR code scam could show up in your inbox 

  

  By Greg Collier

  First, there was phishing, the emails from scammers that tried to get you to click on malicious links. Then there was smishing where scammers tried to get you to click on malicious links in SMS/text messages. Now, there is a new scam called ‘quishing’, which involves QR codes.

  QR codes are similar to the bar codes that get scanned at the supermarket. Except, in the case of QR codes, they direct you to a website. They’re essentially fancy links. When you scan a QR code with your phone’s camera, a URL will pop up for you to click on. While QR codes are used in many industries, their most common use is for advertising. You might see an ad that contains a QR code that will direct you to a sale on a retail site, for example.

  Scammers are now said to be sending emails containing QR codes. The scam emails are made to look like they’re being sent from well-known brands and companies. The email will ask the recipient to scan the QR code to receive some kind of discount or special offer. What actually happens when the code is scanned, the victim is taken to a website that infects their device with malware. From there, the scammers can potentially access any app you may have on your phone. The QR code could also take you to a website that’s cloned from the brand the scammers are imitating, where a victim will be asked for personal or financial information.

  After scanning a QR code, take a close look at the URL or web address it leads to. Be cautious if it appears to be misspelled, overly complex, or has a suspicious domain.

  If you happen to scan a fraudulent QR code, it’s crucial to promptly update your passwords for any affected accounts to prevent unauthorized access by scammers. Additionally, take immediate measures to enhance the security of your financial accounts. Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on these accounts is another effective way to bolster their protection against unauthorized access.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on March 4, 2022 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: good samaritan scam ( 2 ), police impersonation scam ( 65 ), police scam ( 37 ), qr codes, Scams ( 1,386 ), venmo ( 28 )   

  Scam Round Up: QR Codes, Good Samaritan scam, and more 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Once again, we’re bringing you a trio of scams we’ve discussed before, but now have a slight new angle to them.

  ***

  The last time we mentioned QR codes, they were being used in a parking scam in Texas. Now, the Attorney General of North Carolina is warning about QR code scams in the Tarheel State. Many businesses are using QR codes for customers to scan to see things like menus on the customer’s phone. This helps cut down on potentially coming in contact with COVID-19. The NC Attorney general is saying scammers are replacing QR codes used by businesses with stickers of the scammer’s QR code. These scam codes can take you to malicious websites that will either ask you for personal information or inject spyware on to your device which could compromise any of your online accounts. Before scanning a QR code in public, make sure the code has not been tampered with and do not download any software the QR code may instruct you to do.

  ***

  Speaking of North Carolina, for our next story we go to Charlotte where a man was scammed out of $4000 for just trying to be a good person. The man lent his phone to another man who said he needed to use the phone for an emergency. The other man made a call then said he needed to text his sister since the connection was bad. What the other man was really doing was accessing the man’s Venmo app and sending $4000 to himself. The victim didn’t realize his money was gone until two days later. If you use any payment app like Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, or PayPal, among others, there are security measures you can enable to prevent this from happen. You can enable a PIN to keep strangers out of these apps if they happen to access your phone. You can also use a fingerprint lock for devices that are equipped with a fingerprint scanner. It might be a slight inconvenience, but it will help keep thieves out of your financial accounts. And as an additional precaution, you really shouldn’t keep thousands of dollars in apps like Venmo.

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  If you’re in college or even went to college, you may have imbibed in illicit indulgences. Even though it’s legal in many places now, if you engaged in that activity, running into campus police was always one of your biggest fears. In New Mexico, the substance in question is legal, if you’re older than 21. In college, age restrictions usually don’t stop those who are under the legal age limit from partaking. Now, scammers are looking to take advantage of that fear. They’re posing as the New Mexico State University Campus Police and threatening their victims by telling them that the victim is being investigated for a narcotic crime. The scammers are threatening students with arrest if they don’t comply with giving the scammer their personal information. Like any other police impersonation scam, real police will not threaten someone with arrest over the phone. If you receive one of these calls, it is recommended you hang up and call the actual police at the non-emergency number.

  ***

  As we like to tell our readers, even though these scams are not currently happening in your area, now you’re prepared if they do.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on January 31, 2022 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bitcoin ( 32 ), bitcoin atm ( 25 ), cryptocurrency ( 52 ), FTC ( 17 ), qr codes, Scams ( 1,386 )   

  Are more scammers asking for Bitcoin? 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Recently, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has warned consumers they’ve seen a rise in scammers using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Traditionally, scammers usually lean toward trying to collect money from their victims through means like gift cards and money transfers. That’s because gift cards and money transfers are things that most people understand. Meanwhile, if you say cryptocurrency to most consumers, you’ll get a puzzled look. However, the FTC says that scammers have come up with a new and easy way to get victims to pay in cryptocurrency.

  According to the FTC, scammers are now getting their victims to scan QR Codes with their phones. Once a victim scams the QR Code with their phone, the victim just paid the scammer in cryptocurrency. Fortunately, there’s a process that needs to take place before scanning the code that should tip you off that you’re being scammed. The FTC warning states that the scammers will try to get you to go to a Bitcoin ATM, to scan the code. In other instances, the scammers will try to get you to move money out of your bank before getting you to scan the code.

  For example, a man from Athens, Georgia, was recently taken for $45,000 in a tech support scam. A computer pop-up told him his computer had been infected with a virus, and he needed to call Microsoft at a number listed on the pop-up. The scammers told him his computer and phone had been compromised, and he needed to move his money to a cryptocurrency account to protect it. After he moved his money, the scammers gave him a QR code to scan. Once the victim did that, his money was gone, having been transferred to the scammer.

  In most consumer cases, cryptocurrency should be treated just like gift cards. The vast majority of businesses and agencies do not ask for payment in Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency. While cryptocurrency is not untraceable, it is extremely difficult to get back once it’s been sent from one crypto wallet to another. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are still only used in niche circles, despite what its more vocal proponents will tell you.

  So, if someone contacts you and asks for payment in Bitcoin, it’s more than likely a scam.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on January 11, 2022 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: advance fee scam ( 45 ), apartment fire, austin ( 4 ), Bronx, charity scam ( 36 ), cryptocurrency ( 52 ), Houston ( 9 ), investment scams ( 10 ), parking scam ( 2 ), qr codes, san antonio, Scams ( 1,386 ), texas ( 22 )   

  Scam Round Up: QR Codes, Bitcoin, and More 

  

  By Greg Collier

  It’s time once again to bring you three scams from around the country you should be aware of.

  ***

  Major cities in Texas like Houston, Austin, and San Antonio have reported a scam involving QR codes and parking. For those who may not know, QR codes are those square codes you sometimes see. If you point your phone’s camera at a QR code, it will take you to a website where you would normally be provided with additional information. In Texas’ case, scammers around these cities are placing QR codes around city-owned parking spaces. Once you scan the code, you’re asked to pay to use the parking spot. However, the money is going to scammers instead of the city. Along with your payment, the scammers now have your payment information as well. If you have fallen to this scam, you’re asked to file a police report and contact your payment issuer.

  ***

  Cryptocurrency scams continue to find victims across the country. Recently, a North Carolina man lost $15,000 to one of these scams. He was contacted through social media to invest in a cryptocurrency company who claimed that profits were 100% guaranteed. Supposedly, the man’s initial investment grew to $95,000; however, he would need to pay another $14,000 to get his windfall. This is a new crypto-flavored twist on the advance fee scam. For example, when a scammer tries to tell you that you’ve won millions of dollars in a sweepstakes, but you need to pay a fee to claim your winnings. Please keep in mind that the crypto market is filled with scammers, and no investment, not even cryptocurrency, can guarantee you a return on your investment.

  ***

  Lastly, we have to talk about charity scams again. We’re sure most of our readers have heard about the tragic apartment fire that took place in The Bronx recently. The fire has left several families displaced and many in the hospital fighting for their lives. You may feel the need to donate to a charity that would benefit these families. Be careful because scammers will use any tragedy to try to benefit themselves. The Mayor’s Office has set up a donation fund where all proceeds go to help the victims. There is also another city website where you can find additional information on how to help the victims. Don’t make a donation through a robocal. If you’re suspicious about a certain charity, you can always check with the BBB to see how legitimate they are.

  ***

  While these scams may not be happening in your area, they could be soon. Hopefully, you now have the knowledge to recognize these scams.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 10, 2021 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: DirecTV ( 2 ), DISH, free trial ( 3 ), qr codes, satellite tv ( 2 ), Scams ( 1,386 ), subscription fees ( 5 )   

  Scam Round Up: QR Codes, Satellite TV, and unsubscribe scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Once again, we’ve come across a few scams that may not warrant an entire blog post to themselves, but we felt deserved your attention.

  We’ve all seen QR Codes, even though we may not know what their called. They’re the codes that retailers and other companies use that can be scanned by your phone. In some instances, they give you more information on a product or service. However, the Better Business Bureau is warning consumers that scammers are using QR Codes for devious purposes. These malicious QR Codes are even worse than links used in phishing emails, as the QR codes can not only lead you to malicious websites or inject malware into your device, they can also open up many payment apps. It’s recommended that you only scan QR Codes from entities you trust.

  ***

  If you subscribe to a satellite TV service like DISH, or DirecTV, you may want to be wary of any phone calls offering upgrades. If someone calls you claiming to be from your provider and asking for your address and PIN, hang up. Scammers will try to get you to pay for non-existent upgrades while saying it’s a better deal to pay now over the phone than having a technician show up. These providers will never ask you for personal information over the phone, and giving a scammer your PIN could lead to your payments being directed to them rather than your provider.

  ***

  Lastly, we have a scam that wants you to unsubscribe from a service or product, sort of. In this scam, the scammers call their victims and tell them that they must unsubscribe from a free trial or their credit card will be charged. If the victim says that they never signed up for any free trial, the scammers will say that someone else must have signed them up, and they still need to cancel. The scammers will then lead victims to a phony website where they can supposedly unsubscribe from the service they never signed up for in the first place. Of course, these websites are designed to not only steal your information, but can inject malware on to your device as well. If you receive one of these calls, it’s recommended that you contact your credit card company to make sure there are no subscription services on your account that you didn’t sign up for personally.

  ***

  And again, as we like to say, just because a scam isn’t happening in your area, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look out for it.