Online shopping is part of the daily life of many Portuguese. Clothing, electronics, supermarket products, almost everything can be purchased without leaving home. But this convenience has also brought new risks, including the empty boxes, a scheme that has already made victims in Portugal and leaves the consumer without the commodity, even when everything seems legitimate.
HOW THE EMPTY BOXES WORKS
According to the Lifestyle site, Leak, the empty box slide scheme is simple: the victim receives an order that appears to be legitimate, with label and carrier ribbon.
However, when opening the box, it finds only empty or filling materials, such as paper, card or stones that simulate the weight of the product.
This blow explores consumer confidence and failures in logistics processes, leaving the goods missing and the recipient without immediate resources.
Details that facilitate the scam
The rush and confidence of the recipient are factors that the burns explore easily. Many people receive several boxes a week, rarely check out the content at the time of delivery and quickly sign to release the release.
This automatic gesture makes it easier for the empty boxes to be successful. In addition, the high orders and tight deadlines of carriers press the consumer not to check each package carefully.
The impact for those who receive the empty box
The damage may vary greatly. In some cases, these are low value accessories, but frauds involving mobile phones, portable computers or other expensive products have been reported.
The same source explains that dealing with complaints can be complicated, as stores and carriers require proof that the goods have not been delivered correctly, and often the recipient does not have these elements.
How to reduce risk
Prevention undergoes simple measures. Check the weight of the box before signing, open the order in the presence of the relay whenever possible, photograph the content as soon as you receive it and buy it only at trusted stores or marketplaces are some of them.
To be distressing too low prices is also fundamental, as many slops start with promotions that seem irresistible but hide fraud.
What to do if you receive an empty box
If you receive an empty box, you should immediately contact the store and the carrier, present all tests, including photographs, and, if it is suspected of intentional fraud, file a complaint to the police.
Purchases paid with credit card or through platforms such as PayPal can allow reimbursement, provided the contest deadlines are respected.
According to, a detailed registration of your orders and attention at the time of delivery is fundamental to avoid financial losses and complications.
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