HAMPSTEAD — A new scam involving unsolicited gifts and QR codes is targeting unsuspecting recipients, local police warn.
The Hampstead Police Department issued an alert about the “brushing” scam, where individuals receive unexpected packages containing items they did not order, such as jewelry or electronics.
These packages typically include the recipient’s address but lack sender information.
Inside, victims find a QR code they are prompted to scan to identify the sender.
Police caution that scanning the QR code can grant scammers access to personal and financial information stored on the victim’s phone, potentially leading to drained bank accounts.
Authorities advise recipients to keep or discard the item but stress the importance of not scanning any QR codes included in unexpected packages.
The scam is not limited to mailed packages, with similar QR code schemes appearing on parking meters and other public locations.
Law enforcement officials urge residents to inform family members about the scam and to avoid scanning unfamiliar QR codes from any source.
