
Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton Police Department (DPD) is alerting residents to a potential scam involving unsolicited packages and QR codes. While no local incidents have been reported yet, similar scams have surfaced in other states, prompting the department to issue a precautionary warning.
Scammers are reportedly sending items through the mail that the recipient never ordered. These packages include a QR code accompanied by a message encouraging the recipient to scan the code to learn who sent the “gift.”
If the recipient scans the QR code, they are redirected to a webpage designed to look legitimate, such as an Amazon or other well-known vendor’s site. The website then prompts the victim to enter personal and account information to “verify” their identity before revealing the gift sender’s name. In reality, the scammers use this ruse to steal sensitive information, which can then be used for identity theft, fraudulent purchases, or even draining the victim’s bank accounts.
The Dayton Police Department strongly advises residents to exercise caution when dealing with unexpected packages and to avoid scanning QR codes from unknown sources. “Please always be aware and avoid scanning unknown QR codes like ones included in these types of packages,” the department stated.
The DPD encourages vigilance and reminds residents to verify the authenticity of unsolicited packages before taking any action. If you believe you’ve received a suspicious package or have fallen victim to a scam, contact local law enforcement immediately.
Stay informed and protect your personal information by staying cautious and spreading awareness about this potential threat.