Scam of the Week-QR Codes

Scam of the Week: Who Sent This Package? You Don't Want to KnowAs a mortgage professional, I’m committed not only to helping families secure their dream homes—but also to protecting their financial well-being. In today’s digital world, scammers are finding increasingly creative ways to get access to your personal information. One of the latest? A QR code printed on an unexpected package delivered to your door.

The “Mystery Package” QR Code Scam This scam starts when you receive a package you didn’t order. There’s no return address or sender information—just your name and a QR code printed on the box or included on a note inside. The contents of the package are usually of little to no value.

Out of curiosity, you may be tempted to scan the QR code to see where the package came from. But that’s exactly what the scammers are hoping for.

The QR code may lead to a fake website that prompts you to enter personal information, or worse—it may automatically install malware onto your device. Once you’ve scanned and clicked, your private information is exposed, and your device could be compromised.

What’s the Point of Sending Useless Packages? This is a twist on a known scheme called a “brushing scam.” Typically, these scams involve sending unsolicited items to people in order to post fake product reviews under their names. But cybercriminals are now using brushing scams as a way to bait recipients into scanning malicious QR codes—essentially combining old scams with new technology to steal your data.

How to Protect Yourself Here are three simple but effective tips to avoid falling for scams like this:

• Be suspicious of unexpected packages. If you didn’t order something and there’s no information about who sent it, that’s a red flag.
• Never scan a QR code from an unknown source. These codes can easily redirect you to malicious websites designed to steal your data.
• Be cautious about app and website permissions. If you do scan a QR code, don’t grant access to your phone’s data unless you’re absolutely sure the source is trustworthy.

Cybersecurity is just as important as financial security. When scammers exploit your curiosity or trust, it puts more than just your personal data at risk—it can affect your entire financial future. Stay informed, stay alert, and don’t let curiosity lead you into a trap.