Scottsburg, IN. (WAVE) – Sheriff’s deputies in Scott County, Indiana, are alerting residents about a new scam that could cost them a lot of money.
Scott Co. Special Deputy Ray Dawson warns, “Once they get what they want, it’s hard to fix your credit and clear your name.”
Detectives have reported that thieves are using stolen credit card information to order expensive items like phones and laptops. They have these items shipped to the victim’s home and try to grab them before the rightful owner even notices.
The Better Business Bureau of Greater Kentucky and South Central Indiana stated that this scam is relatively new in the area, with only a few cases reported so far.
However, reports are increasing, prompting Dawson and his team to share warnings on social media.
Dawson explains that “criminals may set up many of these schemes just to get a few items delivered to them.”
Historically, a related scam called “brushing” involved scammers sending cheap items to victims to trick them into writing fake positive reviews.
Whitney Adkins with the BBB explains, “Now, scammers are targeting high-value electronics using stolen personal information.”
She recalls a case in the Louisville area where someone received new iPhones they never ordered. The surprised recipient contacted their phone company immediately.
If the thief misses the delivery, they may even come knocking at your door, pretending the package was sent to the wrong address.
Dawson praises local residents for reporting suspicious activity, which helps deputies track down these scammers. If necessary, they can collaborate with federal agencies like the FBI.
“We need information to build a case against these criminals,” Dawson added.
Adkins highlights the importance of being careful with personal information: “Your information is valuable and should be protected.”
If you find yourself a victim of this scam, Adkins and the BBB recommend:
- Contact the company that sent you the item.
- Report it to the police.
- Keep the package as evidence for investigators.
You can also report scams to the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office and to the Federal Trade Commission.
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