THE Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) has issued an alert about a scam known as blow drying, which originated in the United States and is now beginning to spread throughout Spain. This fraud consists of parcel shipping unsolicited with the main objective of creating fictitious buyers who allow fraudsters to generate positive reviews on products in online stores. The recipients of these packages, having not made any purchase, often think that it is an error or even a gift, which leads them to do not return the itemespecially if they do not receive any type of communication from the seller.
The main victim of this system is the online store itself, as fake reviews affect the perception of product qualitymisleading consumers who rely on these ratings to make decisions. Additionally, people who receive these mailings run the risk of their personal data falling into the hands of criminals, which can lead to the creation of fraudulent accounts or other frauds, such as phishing, which aims to steal personal and banking information. The OCU also warns of the dangers posed by electronic deviceslike smart watches, which may not meet quality standards and contain malware.
Brushing, the new scam arriving in Spain
#Consumption Has a package arrived in your name with things you didn’t order?
⚠ Warning: this is a scam whose objective is to usurp your identity to create false reviews. If you have been a victim of this fraud, tell us your case in comments or in a “complaint” 👇– OCU (@consumers) October 8, 2024
This deceptive practice is based on the creating fake accounts and unverified reviews in online stores. The method is very simple: consumers receive packages at home containing products they did not request. By accepting delivery, they become unwitting customers, allowing fraudsters to use their personal data to create fake reviews and various fraudulent activities. This situation is very dangerous because the people involved may not be aware of the identity theft and its implications.
Faced with this type of fraud, the OCU advises those concerned to report any identity theft to the competent authorities, such as the police and the Spanish Data Protection Agency. Furthermore, it is essential that consumers inform online stores of these incidents in order to protect other users from being deceived.
THE identity theft This is a serious offense in Spain, regulated by article 401 of the Penal Code, which punishes usurpation of civil status with prison sentences ranging from six months to three years.
How to act
If you receive a pack that you didn’t ask for, it’s important to take some steps to protect yourself and avoid problems.
First of all, don’t open it. Although it may be tempting, opening it can complicate the situation. Instead, check if there is information on the sender or seller.
Then remember to report the incident to the online store concerned. Most of these companies have policies to address brushing and may take steps to protect other users. It is also advisable to inform the OCU and consumer authorities, as this helps combat the problem and alert other potential victims.
Furthermore, it is essential to maintain the secure your personal and banking information. Change your passwords and consider enabling two-step verification on your accounts, especially if you think your information has been compromised. If you suspect that someone has stolen your identity, report the incident to the police and the Spanish Data Protection Agency.
Finally, stay vigilant and act proactively if something goes wrong. suspicious activity related to your online purchases.
Be careful with electronic devices!
When the package contains an electronic device, such as a smart watch or wireless headphones, special precautions should be taken. Although the note that often accompanies these mailings may suggest that it is a gift or promotion from a reputable company, such as Amazonit is essential to be careful and not get carried away by curiosity. Turning on these devices can have serious consequences for the security of personal information.
As authorities warn, the devices may contain spyware or malware, which is activated when connected to a Wi-Fi network. Once you turn on the device, it can automatically scan for nearby networks, and once connected, it can give a third party access to your home network and any devices connected to it. This opens the door to potential spying on your Internet activity.
The devices therefore become very dangerous toolsbecause fraudsters can use them to spy on accounts and steal banking information from your phone.
