What Is Brushing? Another Scam Alert From East Bay Cops

NEWARK, CA — Packages that you didn't order show up on your doorstep. A gift from the Universe? Not necessarily. You may be the victim of "Brushing," Newark Police warn.

They describe Brushing as third-party retailers buying their own products, but using someone's real name and addresses. Then they give themselves glowing, five-star online reviews of their products.

It may seem harmless, but police warn that Brushing may be a sign that your bank or credit card account, exposed in a data breach, could have been taken over.

>>Also See: DUI Checkpoint This Friday

NPD Tips:
Any time that you receive something that is not yours, be sure to contact the entity directly to identify where the order originated. You could be catching fraud in the act. Always be sure to visit only trusted websites when shopping online.

If you are the victim of fraud, always contact police to file a report.

Also See:

• Scam Text Alert Issued By East Bay Police Department
• SEE: Brazen Laptop Theft In East Bay Coffee Shop

— Image by Renee Schiavone, Patch