While the scam reported below does not specifically apply to RVers, it’s something we all should watch out for to avoid being ripped off. A few other common scams making the rounds this week are described below the article.
The FBI is warning the public about a scam in which criminals send unsolicited packages containing a QR code that prompts the recipient to provide personal and financial information or unwittingly download malicious software that steals data from their phone.
To encourage the victim to scan the QR code, the criminals often ship the packages without sender information to entice the victim to scan the QR code.
This is a variation of a “brushing scam,” which is used by online vendors to increase ratings of their products. In a traditional brushing scam, online vendors send merchandise to an unsolicited recipient and then use the recipient’s information to post a positive review of the product. In this variation, scam actors have incorporated the use of QR codes on packages to facilitate financial fraud activities.
Tips to protect yourself
Criminals continue to evolve their tactics to target unsuspecting victims. Precautions should be taken prior to scanning any QR codes received through unsolicited communications or packages.
• Beware of unsolicited packages containing merchandise you did not order.
• Beware of packages that do not include sender information.
• Take precautions before authorizing phone permissions and access to websites and applications.
• Do not scan QR codes from unknown origins.
• If you believe you are the target of a brushing scam, secure your online presence by changing account profiles and request a free credit report from one or all of the national credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to identify possible fraudulent activity.
Report it
The FBI requests the public report these fraudulent or suspicious activities to the FBI IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) at www.ic3.gov. Be sure to include as much information as possible.
Other current scams
Scam message:
Hello! My name is Katherine from Pearl Talent. We were really impressed with your profile and would like to provide you the chance to take on a flexible remote role. In this position, you would assist merchants by updating their data, improving their visibility, and managing bookings effectively. You can work from anywhere for 60 to 90 minutes a day and earn … (very popular this week)
Scam message:
Hello, I’m a recruiter. We’re currently looking for a part-time assistant to join our team. This online position offers flexible hours, no time restrictions, and remote work. It only takes 30-60 minutes per day and can be done from anywhere. The daily salary ranges from $210 to $510. You’ll be paid immediately after each workday. The base salary for 5 consecutive days is $800. If you’re eager to challenge …
Description of scam:
I was looking for a car on Ebay marketplace and a couple of days later Johana T***** said she was trying to sell her dad’s car. He had passed about 3 months ago and it leaves a lot of memories so she was trying to rid of it and she was dealing with a dealership to sell it for because she’s an airline stewardess and don’t have a lot of time because she does a lot of traveling so a couple of days later I sent …
Scam message (text)
Final Law Enforcement Warning You have a record of an unpaid traffic ticket. If it is not paid before August 1, 2025, according to the Texas Vehicle Management Act D508-12.083: The Vehicle Administration will record your violations. Vehicle registration will be suspended. The driving qualification will be revoked for 30 days. A 35% law …
MORE SCAMS TO BE AWARE OF
- Unpaid toll scam targets drivers nationwide
- Gas station credit card scams on the rise across the U.S. Don’t fall victim!
- Nationwide scam targets owners of missing pets
- All about RV VIN checks and how to avoid scams
- A growing scam could leave you stuck with a stolen vehicle
- Looking for a new dog? Don’t fall for a puppy scam!
- Arizona residents targeted in traffic fine scam
RVT1221b
Thank you for passing along the warning, RV Travel. Seems the biggest thing is remaining vigilant; don’t get caught off guard. Have a great day and safe travels!
I have received texts from “Colorado ” police that I owe a toll fee. Nope, not me. Sometimes it comes as a group text. Annoying.
Law enforcement don’t do anything about the scammers. Constantly getting them. Sent a couple to District Attorney, nothing from them. Got one from our sheriff’s office, when I called the sheriffs office afterwards they said it was a scam and didn’t do anything. Scammers phone number shown on the phone was the same number as the sheriff’s.