USPS Warns Florida About A New ‘Gift In The Mail’ Scam

A sparkling ring in your mailbox might seem like a holiday surprise, but for Floridians, it could be the latest scam in disguise. This season, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) is warning consumers about a deceptive scheme called "brushing"—and it’s not as harmless as it looks.

The “Gift” You Didn’t Order

Imagine this: a glittering ring arrives in your mailbox with no note, no receipt, and no recollection of ordering it. What appears to be a festive treat is actually a clever scam. Fraudsters purchase inexpensive rings, often made of moissanite or imitation luxury materials, and mail them to unsuspecting people. Once delivered, they post fake reviews under your name, making themselves look like reputable sellers.

The real problem? These scammers already have your personal details, such as your name and address—and possibly more.

What To Do If You’re Targeted

Floridians, especially those who shop online for the holidays, should be on high alert. If you receive an unexpected package, follow these steps:

• Don’t Pay Anything: Federal law protects you from being charged for items you didn’t order.
• Return It: Write “RETURN TO SENDER” on unopened packages with a return address, and USPS will handle the rest free of charge.
• Dispose of It: If returning isn’t an option, you can simply discard the item.
• Keep It With Caution: You’re not obligated to return unsolicited items, but be mindful of potential risks.
• Update Your Passwords: Change passwords for your online accounts to enhance security.
• Monitor Your Finances: Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.
• Report the Scam: Contact local authorities if the package contains suspicious items like food or liquids.
• Alert the Retailer: If the package originated from platforms like Amazon or eBay, file a report and request they remove fraudulent reviews associated with your account.

Stay Ahead of the Scammers

With holiday shopping in full swing, safeguarding your personal information is more critical than ever. By staying vigilant and taking action, Floridians can protect themselves from falling victim to this sneaky scheme.

Remember, not all surprises are gifts. Stay safe, shop smart, and keep your holidays cheerful—without any unexpected deliveries.