Most people smile when they find an unexpected package on their doorstep. After all, who doesn’t like a surprise delivery? But when those packages start showing up without being ordered—and addressed to you—there may be something more sinister at play. Welcome to the world of “brushing scams,” a deceptive practice that is catching older Americans off guard.
A brushing scam occurs when an online seller sends packages of inexpensive goods—think phone chargers, socks, or trinkets—to people who never ordered them. The items usually arrive from overseas vendors through online marketplaces such as Amazon, Walmart, or eBay.
Why would anyone go to the trouble of sending you free merchandise? The goal isn’t generosity. The sellers are trying to create fake, verified reviews of their products. By shipping an item to a real address, they can post a review under the recipient’s name, making their product appear more legitimate and boosting its ranking on e-commerce platforms.
In short: the package is bait, and your identity is the hook.
What does this matter? At first glance, brushing scams seem more like an annoyance than a threat. But for Americans over 60, these scams carry real risks:
- Personal Data Exposure – If your name and home address are being used by a scammer, it means that information is floating around in the hands of someone you didn’t authorize. This raises concerns about how your data was obtained and what else they might have.
- Gateway to Bigger Scams – Brushing scams are often linked to broader fraud networks. Scammers who know you are responsive—or perhaps confused by surprise packages—may target you for more aggressive schemes, such as phishing calls, fraudulent subscription sign-ups, or fake tech support scams.
- Erosion of Trust – Older adults, especially those who live alone, may feel unsettled or unsafe when strange packages appear on their doorstep. Was it a mistake? A stalker? A sign that someone is watching? This confusion can create unnecessary anxiety.
- Financial Consequences – In some cases, brushing scams can escalate into unauthorized charges on credit cards or accounts. People who already face financial vulnerability may be especially harmed.
The key red flag is simple: packages arrive that you never ordered, often from unfamiliar companies or overseas addresses. The items inside are usually cheap, lightweight, and unrelated to your interests. Some packages may not even have a return address.
If you start receiving these mystery parcels, don’t shrug them off. Recognizing a brushing scam early is the first step in protecting yourself.
What should you do if you suspect a brushing scam?
- Don’t Pay and Don’t Panic – You are not legally obligated to return or pay for unordered merchandise. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) states clearly that you may keep these items.
- Check Your Accounts – Review your credit card and bank statements for unauthorized charges. If you see anything suspicious, report it immediately.
- Change Your Passwords – Since scammers obtained your name and address, they may have other personal details. Update your online shopping and email account passwords to add a layer of security.
- Report It – You can file a complaint with the FTC or the e-commerce platform where the package originated. If you receive repeated shipments, notify your local post office as well.
- Stay Alert for Follow-Up Scams – Be cautious about phone calls, texts, or emails that claim to “fix” the problem or offer compensation. These are often the next step in a fraudster’s playbook.
Older Americans are a frequent target of scams because criminals assume they are less familiar with online shopping practices. But awareness is the strongest defense. If you or a loved one receive suspicious packages, talk about it openly. Share your experience with friends, neighbors, or senior groups so others know what to watch for.
Brushing scams may look harmless, but they are part of a bigger picture of consumer manipulation and personal data misuse. With vigilance, older adults can protect themselves, their finances, and their peace of mind.
Not every gift on your doorstep is worth opening.