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NewsWSVN 7 News MiamiJuly 29, 2026Miami-Dade

What to do if you receive mystery packages in the mail

A Deerfield Beach resident is reporting a surge of unsolicited packages, a tactic known as 'brushing' used by scammers to potentially steal personal information. Experts warn that these packages often contain QR codes that, if scanned, could lead to malware or identity theft.

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Read the full story at WSVN 7 News Miami

Why It Matters

Residents receiving unsolicited mail face potential risks to their digital security and personal data if they interact with QR codes or links included in the packages.

Key Facts

  • The 'brushing' scam involves sending unsolicited packages to random addresses to entice recipients to scan QR codes.
  • Scanning QR codes on unsolicited packages may lead to malware downloads or the theft of personal data.
  • The Better Business Bureau advises recipients to throw away unsolicited packages rather than interacting with them.
  • Scammers may use the packages to prompt recipients to enter personal information on fake company websites.
  • The Better Business Bureau of Southeast Florida has received hundreds of complaints regarding this scam in Florida this year.
  • Victims are encouraged to report unsolicited packages to the Better Business Bureau to assist in investigations.
  • The Better Business Bureau coordinates with the Federal Trade Commission and the Florida Attorney General to address these cases.

Who's Mentioned

organizationBetter Business Bureau of Southeast Florida“Organization providing guidance on the 'brushing' scam.”personKim Watson“A Deerfield Beach resident who received multiple unsolicited packages.”organizationAttorney General of Florida“State office working on scam cases.”personCourtney Allen“Reporter for 7Investigates.”personCinthya Lavin“Representative from the Better Business Bureau of Southeast Florida.”organizationFederal Trade Commission“Federal agency partnering with the BBB to investigate scams.”other11“The number of packages received by Kim Watson in a single day.”