Lancaster, PA, USA - December 15, 2017: Two Amazon Prime brown boxes package delivered at a residential home front door.

Brushing scams on the rise as holidays near — Lancaster, PA, USA - December 15, 2017: Two Amazon Prime brown boxes package delivered at a residential home front door.

TRENTON, NJ – Local authorities are cautioning residents about a nationwide brushing scam in which unsuspecting victims receive mysterious packages designed to steal personal and financial information.

The scam begins with a package delivered to the victim’s home, often resembling a shipment from Amazon or another major retailer. Inside, there may be random items and a note containing a QR code. The note instructs recipients to scan the code to identify the sender.

Authorities say scanning the QR code directs victims to a fraudulent website, often mimicking a legitimate retailer’s page, where they are prompted to enter account credentials and personal information. This information can then be used by scammers to access bank accounts and other sensitive data.

“Be cautious of unsolicited packages and avoid scanning QR codes or providing any personal information,” local officials advised in a public statement, emphasizing the importance of vigilance. While no local reports have been made, officials say the scam has been spreading nationwide.

Residents are urged to report suspicious deliveries to law enforcement or contact the customer service of the retailer that appears to have sent the package.

Unexpected packages and fake QR codes are the latest tools scammers are using to exploit personal information.

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