The 'unordered package' brushing scam

You receive a package you didn't order, and scammers hope you'll either keep it or help them manipulate online reviews in their favor.

Documented by the FTC, USPIS & FBI IC3 · reviewed 2026-07-10

How it works

A package arrives at your door containing an inexpensive item you never purchased. The sender's address may be vague or overseas. Scammers are counting on your confusion—they may later contact you asking you to post positive reviews or ratings for products or sellers, or they simply want proof that the package reached a real address to build fake credibility online.

What it can look like

Sarah receives a small phone case she didn't order. A few days later, she gets a message from an unfamiliar seller asking her to leave a five-star review for the item in exchange for a small refund. She's puzzled because she never bought from them, but the message creates pressure to 'do the right thing' or get a reward.

How it unfolds

Scams like this follow a pattern. Knowing the arc helps you notice where you are — and step away before the ask.

You receive a package you didn't order, containing a low-cost item (often a phone accessory or small gadget). The label shows your address but you have no record of placing this order.

Days or weeks later, you receive a message (text, email, or social media) from someone claiming to be a seller or delivery service, apologizing for the 'mistake' and asking you to confirm receipt or leave a positive review.

The sender becomes friendly and persistent, sometimes offering a small refund or discount code if you post a five-star review online, or asking you to click a link to 'verify' your address or account.

STOP HERE: If you've given personal information, passwords, or payment details in response to these messages, or if you're being asked to wire money, buy gift cards, or transfer funds—this is a scam. Do not continue contact or follow any more instructions.

Red flags

You receive a package with no order confirmation from you
The sender address is unfamiliar, vague, or outside your country
Someone contacts you afterward asking for a review, rating, or feedback
You're offered money, refunds, or rewards for posting positive reviews
The item is low-cost and seems designed to slip under notice

What to do

Do not respond to requests for reviews or ratings, and do not feel obligated to keep or use the item
Keep the package as-is and do not provide any personal information if contacted about it
Report the incident to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov so authorities can track patterns

If it already happened

Acting quickly can limit the damage. You are not alone, and it is not your fault.

Stop all communication with the sender immediately. Do not click links, download files, or respond to further messages, even if they appear urgent or apologetic.
If you shared a password, debit card, credit card, or banking information, contact your bank or card issuer right away. Ask them to review your account for unauthorized activity and consider replacing your card.
If you sent money via wire transfer, gift card, or app-based payment, contact that service's fraud team at once—these transfers are sometimes reversible within a short window.
Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Include the sender's contact information, the item received, and copies of any messages. This report protects others and creates an official record.

Sources

Guidance on this page draws on public, authoritative consumer-protection resources (verified live 2026-07-10). Documented by the FTC, USPIS & FBI IC3 · reviewed 2026-07-10.

Spotted this or lost money? Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov. This is general educational information, not legal or financial advice — and ScamVet never asks for your identity or account details.

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