Beware of Surprise Jewelry: A Holiday Scam Targeting North Carolinians
A dazzling ring in your mailbox may sound like a Christmas dream, but for North Carolina buyers, it could be a concealed trap. This season, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) is warning shoppers about a scam called as brushing, which is not as glamorous as it appears.
The “Gift” You Didn’t Ask For
Consider this: you get a sparkling ring in the mail. No letter, no purchase confirmation, simply a surprise box. While it may appear exciting, these unexpected gifts are a sophisticated technique. Scammers buy cheap rings, usually made of moissanite or fake designer brands, and deliver them to unsuspecting victims. Scammers use your name as a confirmed buyer to generate positive product reviews after delivery.
What’s worse? They already have access to your personal information, including your name, address, possibly more.
Brushing Scam PSA
Have you gotten a shipment in the mail but did not order anything? Watch this video to discover how to avoid brushing frauds.
What Should You Do If This Happens?
North Carolina citizens, particularly those buying online for the holidays, should exercise caution. If you get an unexpected package, here’s how to address it:
- Don’t Pay Anything: You’re not responsible for paying for unsolicited items.
- Return It: If it’s unopened and has a return address, write “RETURN TO SENDER” on the package, and the USPS will send it back free of charge.
- Dispose of It: If you’d rather not bother returning it, you can throw it away.
- Keep It: There’s no harm in keeping the item, but be mindful of the potential risks.
- Update Your Passwords: Change the passwords for your online shopping accounts to prevent further issues.
- Monitor Your Finances: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unusual charges.
- Report the Scam: Notify local authorities, especially if the package contains something suspicious like food or liquids.
- Alert the Retailer: If the package came from Amazon, eBay, or a similar site, file a report with the company and request they remove any fraudulent reviews in your name.
Stay One Step Ahead
With online shopping so popular this holiday season, it’s more critical than ever to protect your personal information. North Carolinians can prevent becoming victims of scams by being vigilant and proactive.
Remember, not every surprise is a gift. Stay safe, purchase smart, and enjoy the holidays—without any unwanted deliveries.