The FBI has issued a warning as homes across the United States receive unsolicited packages containing suspicious QR codes, which could lead to financial scams. This troubling trend highlights how scammers increasingly exploit modern technology for deceitful purposes.
In July, the FBI alerted the public to this new scam affecting individuals nationwide. Victims receive unexpected packages that can cause serious financial harm if not handled with caution.
The scam resembles earlier “brushing scams.” In these instances, companies send products to random people and then post fake reviews under those names to boost their ratings. However, this new variant poses a greater risk. It features unsolicited parcels with printed QR codes either on the outer packaging or inside. These packages lack return addresses, leaving recipients unaware of their origin.
When victims scan the QR code, they are directed to fraudulent phishing websites that request personal information, such as credit card and bank details. These fake sites often mimic genuine ones, which can deceive individuals into providing sensitive information.
Cybersecurity firm NordVPN revealed that 73% of Americans scan QR codes without verifying them, with over 26 million admitting to being directed to malicious sites.
Although the scam has existed for a couple of years, the FBI is now urging people to remain vigilant, especially when receiving packages they did not order. They recommend reporting any scams to the FBI. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has also advised victims to change any compromised passwords and enable two-factor authentication. They urge individuals to monitor their credit reports for any signs of fraudulent activity.
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