Mystery package scams are alarming consumers, as unsolicited packages containing fake jewelry flood mailboxes. TikTok influencer Ronica Janae (@vsg_twinboymom) recently shared her experience in a viral video with over 2.4 million views. She opened her mailbox to find what appeared to be a “diamond” ring addressed to her—an engagement ring, no less!
In confusion, Janae checked her TikTok shop and Amazon accounts to see if she had made a forgotten order, but found nothing. Upon closer inspection, she discovered a card featuring a QR code and a booklet resembling a jeweler’s advertisement.
Unmasking the Mystery Package Scam
After researching the address on the package, Janae quickly realized it was part of a mystery package scam. The intention behind the scam is to entice recipients to scan the QR code for more information about the “jewelry company.” However, doing so allows scammers to access personal information stored on the recipient’s phone.
To make matters worse, Janae demonstrated the poor quality of the rings, breaking one in half with ease. “I just wanted to warn everyone because it caught me off guard,” she said.
FBI Warning: A Growing Concern
Earlier this year, the FBI issued a scam warning about criminals exploiting QR codes to infiltrate personal devices and steal information. This tactic is often unnoticed until victims see unexpected charges on their credit cards. The FBI has noted a rise in these scams since 2022, coinciding with the increased use of QR codes during the pandemic for minimizing contact.
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Stephanie Walker, an assistant section chief in the FBI Cyber Division, cautioned, “Scanning the wrong QR code can give criminals access to your phone, allowing them entry to your frequently used apps.” Unfortunately, recovery of stolen funds can be challenging, with law enforcement often unable to intervene once money has been transferred.
How to Protect Yourself
To safeguard against QR code fraud, double-check the legitimacy of any QR code you encounter. Ensure the URL it leads to is accurate and trustworthy. Scammers often employ slightly altered domain names to deceive users. When scanning physical QR codes, verify that they haven’t been tampered with; sometimes, scammers place their codes over legitimate ones.
Additionally, it’s wise to avoid downloading apps via QR codes. Instead, visit your phone’s app store directly, and don’t rely on QR scanner apps—your camera function is sufficient.
Community Reactions
The TikTok community reacted strongly to Janae’s warning. One commenter, an IT security engineer, stated, “This is real folks. Stay safe.” Others shared their experiences, with one person recounting how an elderly woman lost $40,000 after scanning a similar QR code.
“I don’t even trust the QR codes at the grocery store anymore,” another commenter admitted. These reactions highlight a growing skepticism surrounding unsolicited packages and QR codes, emphasizing the need for caution in today’s digital age.
Manzelan reached out to Janae for comment via Instagram and TikTok direct message.
