Here’s What You Need to Know About Maine’s ‘Brushing Scam’

A very odd and unsettling scam has been making waves throughout Maine. So that means, it's time to focus on yet another scam so that we can always be prepared and cautious.

I'm right there with you, this is getting ridiculous.

According to WMTW YouTube, there are currently reports of a new scam popping up called the "Brushing Scam."

Have you ever gotten a package you didn't order? Well, you might unknowingly be a target of this scheme.

Read more: LOOK: You Won't Believe How Easy it is to Be Scammed in Maine

Here's what we know about the brushing scam

Residents will get packages that are unexpected ranging from random bobbles to cheap gadgets. The package sent will have your address but not always the return sender.

At first, this may not seem harmful, right? I mean, who doesn't like free stuff? But, there is a dark side to the scam, thus it being known as a scam.

According to the report, there will be a QR code on the package for you to scan. DON'T SCAN IT. The moment you do, those scammer will receive more of your information and you would be compromised, as per WMTW.

Since you received it at your home, that means, scammers have access to your name and address and that's the first thing that's bad.

Read More: BEWARE: New Police Phone Scam Circulating Maine Homes 

It's pretty likely they bought your data through online data breaches which is very concerning to think about how much of our personal information is out there.

Nowadays, I just assume that they know everything about me.

Here's the thing, if scammers have your shipping details, they may also have access to other sensitive information you don't want to be known and if you use that QR code you are giving them more.

Below is a video from WMTW YouTube, explaining more about the brushing scam.

How to Protect Yourself from Brushing

Don't keep the items. Even though it's probably tempting to keep unsolicited packages, it could encourage them to target you again.

Check your accounts and makes sure you haven't been compromised. Then, report it!

Get ahold of the seller or the platform and let them know you didn't order that parcel. You can also go one step further and get ahold of the FTC, Federal Trade Commission.

Then, secure your data and regularly change those passwords.

Read More: Maine Business Loses Thousands to Bank Scam 

What Should You Do With the Items?

You are not legally obligated to keep or return it, but it’s essential to take the steps I spoke about above.

Maybe think about donating the item if you don’t want to keep it. But always make sure to stay vigilant and cautious.

Have you been a victim of the brushing scam in Maine? Let us know. 

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