Low riskOnline Shopping Scams

Brushing Scam

In this scam, you receive parcels you never ordered, sent by a seller using your name and address to post fake 'verified' reviews; while the items are free, it can signal your personal details are being misused.

Quick verdict

Risk level
Low risk
Scam type
Fake-review / data-misuse scheme
Main red flag
Unexpected parcels you never ordered arrive in your name from unknown sellers.
What to do first
Do not pay anything; check your shopping accounts for unfamiliar orders or reviews.

What this scam usually looks like

In this scam, you receive parcels you never ordered, sent by a seller using your name and address to post fake 'verified' reviews; while the items are free, it can signal your personal details are being misused.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: You receive several small items you never bought, addressed to you, with no clear sender, followed later by 'fees' or QR-code 'thank you' cards asking you to scan.

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • Parcels arriving that you never ordered
  • Items addressed to you but from unknown sellers
  • Later requests to pay a 'fee' or scan a QR code for the 'free' items
  • Reviews posted in your name that you did not write
  • Unfamiliar orders appearing in your shopping accounts

What to do

  • Check your online shopping accounts for orders or reviews you did not make
  • Change passwords and enable two-factor authentication on those accounts
  • Report the unordered items to the relevant marketplace
  • Keep an eye on statements in case your payment details were used

If you already clicked or replied

  • If you scanned a QR code and entered details, treat it as phishing and secure those accounts
  • Watch for unexpected charges and dispute any you did not authorise
  • Review and remove any fake reviews posted in your name where possible
  • Monitor your credit and accounts for signs of identity misuse

What not to do

  • Do not pay any 'fee' for items you never ordered
  • Do not scan unknown QR codes that arrive with the parcels
  • Do not ignore it entirely; check that your accounts are secure

Similar scams

Low risk Online Shopping

Fake Review Scam

In this scam, fake or paid five-star reviews and fake review websites make a dishonest seller, product, or store look trustworthy, leading shoppers to buy items that are poor quality, counterfeit, or never arrive at all.
Medium risk Text Message

QR Code Scam

This scam uses a malicious QR code, often a sticker over a real one or sent by text, that leads to a fake payment or login page or prompts a harmful app install.
Medium risk Email

Fake Amazon Order Email

This scam emails a fake order confirmation for an expensive item, hoping you click a link or call a number to dispute a charge you never made.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay for items I never ordered?
No. In most places, unordered goods can be treated as a gift and you are not obliged to pay. Be wary of any later request for a fee.
Why did this happen to me?
A seller is likely using your name and address to post fake 'verified purchase' reviews. It can mean your details are circulating, so secure your accounts.
Is it dangerous to receive these parcels?
The items themselves are usually harmless, but the scheme suggests your personal data is being misused, and any QR codes or fee requests that follow can be phishing.
What should I check first?
Log in to your shopping accounts to look for unfamiliar orders or reviews, change your passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and watch your statements.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.