Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN/AP) - Mysterious packages of seeds are showing up in mailboxes across Western New York and the country.
Agriculture officials in multiple states have issued warnings about unsolicited shipments of foreign seeds. They are believed to be part of a brushing scam, where people receive unsolicited items from a seller who then posts fake customer reviews.
In Kentucky, the agriculture department says it was notified that several Kentucky residents received unsolicited seed packets sent by mail that appeared to have originated in China. Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles said the types of seeds are unknown and could be harmful. He stressed that the seeds should not be planted. In North Carolina, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services says it was contacted by numerous people who received seed shipments they did not order.
New York State Commissioner of Agriculture Richard A. Ball issued this statement:
"Our office has received questions from a few New Yorkers who have received unsolicited packages allegedly sent from China that are marked as containing jewelry (or other items) but which actually contain plant seeds. Similar packages have been received in other states and the United States Department of Agriculture is investigating. People who receive seeds should not plant or handle the seeds. They should store them safely in a place children and pets cannot access and email USDA immediately at erich.l.glasgow@usda.gov for instructions. Seeds imported into the United States are rigorously tested to ensure quality and prevent introduction of invasive species, insects and diseases. We will continue to monitor this issue and will pass along guidance as it is received from USDA."
New Yorkers who get the seeds should contact the USDA at: erich.l.glasgow@usda.gov
