Empty envelopes in your mailbox? Do not scan that code
Mystery envelopes have been showing up in mailboxes, often empty or containing a QR code, which may be part of a brushing scam or a trap to steal personal information. The envelopes can be a sign that the recipient's name and address are being used in a scam, and may be connected to fake online reviews. It is essential to be cautious when receiving such envelopes and not to scan any QR codes or provide personal information.
- ▪The empty envelope scam is often connected to brushing, where a third-party seller sends a cheap item or an empty envelope to make it look like a real order was delivered.
- ▪The scam can lead to fake 'verified buyer' reviews on online marketplaces, making junk products appear more popular than they are.
- ▪Recent reports describe people receiving small white padded envelopes from unfamiliar or possibly fake sender names, sometimes with QR codes or cheap trinkets inside.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
FBI Empty envelopes in your mailbox? Do not scan that code That mystery envelope may be tied to a brushing scam, fake reviews or a QR code trap designed to steal your personal information By Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report Fox News Published June 27, 2026 2:30pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Fox News Flash top headlines for June 25 Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on FoxNews.com. NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! A plain white envelope shows up in your mailbox. It is addressed to you. It may even have a tracking number. The sender's name looks unfamiliar, but the delivery seems real. Then you open it. Nothing is inside. No note. No product. No explanation.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Fox News.
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