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Investigation into the Unexplained Shipping Scam

Feb 22, 2023

Understanding the Bizarre Scam:
A strange scam is emerging, where people unexpectedly receive items they didn't order, such as low-value goods. Numerous reports of such incidents have surfaced on SafelyHQ.com and within this subreddit.

Initial Theories:
Initially, it was thought to be a "brushing" scam, where phony reviews are created to enhance a seller's online presence. However, we're not convinced this fully explains the situation.

Our Investigative Approach:
To understand the underlying mechanics, we scrutinized over 4,000 reported cases. We've included a chart* below to illustrate some of our findings.

What We've Uncovered:
  • Our ongoing investigation suggests:
  • You might have inadvertently bought from a scam website.
  • The seller then sends you a cheap item (like a pen, scarf, or low-cost ring).
  • They obtain a tracking number for this shipment.
  • This tracking number complicates disputing the original transaction.
  • The seller claims it's a shipping error, not fraud.
  • Despite potentially refunding some buyers, the low cost of the shipped item means they profit even with a few successful scams.
It's important to note that this may not be the case for everyone, and our expertise doesn't specifically cover mail or online seller fraud. SafelyHQ primarily focuses on health, safety, and community issues, but we're committed to shedding light on this particular matter.

How You Can Assist:
  1. If affected, please report your experience on SafelyHQ.com, including any relevant details and photos of the package or product. This information aids our analytics and enhances our research. While providing contact information is optional and confidential, it's helpful for follow-up.
  2. Reflect on any recent purchases from less familiar online stores that you haven't received yet. Include the vendor's name or a copy of your order in your SafelyHQ report.
  3. Your input and feedback are invaluable. Please share your thoughts in the comments to help us deepen our understanding and tackle this issue more effectively.

Recent Interesting Reports

Q
No paperwork! Wish to return for credit to my AMX card.
I received a box marked, LAN TING with no paper work and items not what I ordered. From: Complete Aviation, Unit #16-17, 3495 Laird Road, Mississauga, Ontario  L5L.   5-YYZ

#scam #onlineshopping #delivery #onlinescam #novascotia #ca

Y

Scammers, Plymouth, Massachusetts, USA

2 weeks ago reported by user-yztyn577

I order 2 tazer rings for $6.99 each and received 2 cat ear rings, no tazer at all, having been attacked and raped recently I was hoping for some kind of protection, these might hurt if I hit you hard enough, it’s a joke. Ant find then … See More

#scam #onlineshopping #uspostalservice #onlinescam #delivery #plymouth #massachusetts #us

Last 30 days