SCAM ALERT: Scammers Sending Polite “Thank You” Packages

RARITAN TWP., N.J. (Hunterdon County) — If you receive an unexpected “thank you” from someone you helped, you can graciously accept their appreciation; however, if it comes in the form of an unexpected package, it may be a scam with a “polite” approach.

The Hunterdon County Sheriff’s Office is advising area residents of an increase of complaints related to a “brushing scam.” Brushing Scams occur when a third-party seller sends unsolicited packages to a victim’s address to manipulate product ratings and boost their sales.

Though it may seem like a harmless inconvenience, it unfortunately may indicate that your personal information has been compromised.

For example, scammers have been mailing out random packages, often from Amazon or other retailers, that people did not order from. Inside, there may be a note asking targeted victims to scan a QR code to "see who sent it," "claim a reward," or "thank the sender."

County law enforcement officials warn that scanning the QR code may redirect to a fake website that steals your personal or financial information and can install malware on your phone or mobile device.

Residents are encouraged to practice the following:

• If you didn't order it, treat the package as suspicious mail;
• Do NOT scan the QR code;
• Report the package to the retailer (e.g., Amazon) for which it was purportedly sent from and retain photos of the item, packaging, and QR code; and
• Report the incident to law enforcement.
  • Township residents concerned they may have been scammed can also contact the Raritan Township Police Department’s non-emergency phone number at: (908) 782-8889.

In the event residents scanned the code and/or entered personal information, they are encouraged to monitor their accounts closely and consider changing their passwords.

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