DFCU Blog

It’s International Fraud Awareness Week, which means there is no better time to spotlight one of the sneakiest (and seasonally active) scams out there: the brushing scam.

Online shopping ramps up in November, holiday deliveries start piling in, and scammer know we’re all keeping an eye out for packages. That make this the perfect time to stay informed and stay alert!

Here are Dannemora Federal Credit Union, we are dedicated to your financial security. Not just this week, but every week. So, let’s break down what brushing scams are and what you should do if a mystery box lands on your doorstep.

What is a brushing scam?

A brushing scam happens when you receive a package you never ordered. It might be a random item, like socks, a kitchen gadget, or something totally strange.

Sounds harmless, right? Free stuff! But here’s the catch: the scammer isn’t trying to be generous. They’re using your name and address to create fake sales and positive reviews online. By shipping low-cost items to real addresses, they can “verify” fake accounts, post glowing reviews for their products, and boost their seller ratings.

Essentially, your porch is being used as a prop in their online sales scheme.

What to do if it happens to you.

If a mystery package spears on your door:

1. Don’t assume it’s a surprise gift.
   Unsolicited packages are typically tied to a scammer, not a secret admirer.
2. Review your financial accounts.
   Give your DFCU accounts and credit cards a quick scan for unauthorized charges.
3. Report it to the retailer.
   Let the company (e.g., Amazon, Walmart, Target) know you received an unsolicited package. They can investigate the sender and secure your account.
4. Change your passwords.
   Especially on retail platforms. A brushing scam may mean your account info floating somewhere it shouldn’t be.
5. Watch for follow-up scams.
   Fake delivery texts, phishing emails, and “tracking notifications” often follow a brushing scam attempt.

Keep your Holidays Merry, Not Messy.

International Fraud Awareness Week is a great reminder to stay vigilant, especially during the holiday shopping rush. A brushing scam might seem harmless at first glance, but protecting your identity and financial information is key to keeping the season bright.

At DFCU, your security is our priority. If you ever spot suspicious activity or think your personal information may have been misused, our team is here to help.