Brushing scams

Brushing scams

What’s happening?

Have you received an unexpected parcel in the post, generally containing a low-value item and a QR code? Be cautious and make sure that you don’t fall victim to the latest scam to affect New Zealanders – ‘brushing’.

Brushing scams involve offenders sending out parcels containing unsolicited, often low-value items with no (or limited) information on the sender; alongside the item will also be a QR code.

Offenders are relying on the lack of information contained within the parcel to encourage recipients to scan the QR codes to learn more about the package and sender. Instead, once the QR code is scanned the recipient is at risk, with the QR code generally directing them to a website that will attempt to compromise their personal and financial information through either phishing or malware.

Westpac is aware that some New Zealanders have received ‘brushing’ parcels, and urge you to be cautious with any unsolicited parcels, and unsolicited communication more broadly.

What should I do?

• If you receive an unsolicited package similar to what is described above:

• Don’t scan the QR code included in the package;

• Don’t try and find the sender’s website;

• If you have scanned the QR code, contact your bank immediately;

• If you think your personal details have been compromised, you can also contact ID Care on 0800 121 068 or 09 884 4440, 10am to 7pm, Monday to Friday.

New Zealand Police advises that you can either keep or dispose of the unsolicited item.

Westpac have on their website the latest scams and alerts, https://www.westpac.co.nz/personal/ways-to-bank/safety-and-security/latest-scams/