June 27, 2025, 1:19 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
More and more Amazon customers are suddenly receiving packages—even though they haven’t ordered anything. Behind this is a clever scam called “brushing.” We explain how it works and what you should watch out for.
A package at your doorstep—but you didn’t order anything? You’re not alone. More and more Amazon customers report receiving unexpected deliveries. The contents: usually cheap items like phone cases, kitchen gadgets, or no-name electronics. There’s no order in the Amazon account. This could be “brushing.” What’s behind it?
“Brushing” Generates Fake Reviews Through Fake Orders
“Brushing” is a worldwide phenomenon causing trouble in many places. Sellers—often from abroad—create fake accounts to place sham orders and send real goods to actual addresses. These addresses usually come from leaked databases or illegally purchased address lists.
The trick: Because a shipment has occurred, sellers can then leave positive reviews for the product and themselves. This increases visibility in Amazon search results—and boosts sales chances.
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What Customers Should Do About “Brushing”
Recipients usually don’t suffer financial loss. There’s no invoice, and the goods can be kept. But many are worried: How did someone get my address? Is my identity being misused?
Amazon states it actively combats brushing, as reported by “Computer BILD” (part of Axel Springer SE, like TECHBOOK). But it’s challenging: The perpetrators act anonymously, with fake accounts, often outside Europe. There are rarely any reports—after all, there’s no direct victim. For Amazon, the problem remains significant: If users no longer trust the review system, the entire shopping experience suffers. And that could ultimately affect legitimate sellers who operate honestly.
Also of interest: What is Review Bombing?
Anyone receiving such a package should document it (e.g., with photos), not return it, and inform Amazon customer service. Address data is hard to protect online—but with an account at an identity leak warning service (like “Have I Been Pwned“), you can at least check if personal data is already circulating.