The allure of the unknown has always captivated the human imagination, and in the digital age, this fascination has manifested in the form of mystery boxes—parcels filled with undisclosed items that promise the thrill of surprise. However, a concerning trend has emerged on social media platforms, where the mystery box craze has taken a questionable turn, particularly in Australia.
The concept of ‘unboxing’ is not new to the internet. For years, viewers have been enthralled by content creators revealing the contents of subscription boxes, tech gadgets, and more. But the latest iteration of this trend involves mystery boxes that contain what are claimed to be ‘unclaimed’ mail and parcels. These packages, still sealed and complete with labels, are said to have never reached their rightful owners.
The trend has seen a surge in Australian-based videos, where content creators can be seen opening boxes filled with an assortment of items intended for individuals across the country. These parcels hold personal items that were meant to be in someone else’s hands.
Prices for these boxes vary, with a set of five packages going for $50, and larger boxes fetching up to $150. Some of the parcels even bear the Australia Post labelling, raising serious concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of personal information.
@the_kali_adventure Unclaimed mail but make it australian #unclaimedmail #mysterypackage ♬ original sound – Kali_hovey22
@the_buxtons_wotsup Unclaimed mail and mystery packages the Aussie way! #unclaimedmail #unclaimedpackages #mysterybox #unclaimedmailaustralia ♬ original sound – the_buxtons_wotsup
Australia Post, the nation’s postal service handling approximately 2.5 billion items annually, has voiced significant worries regarding this trend.
A spokesperson from Australia Post stated, ‘We have no connection or affiliation with the mystery box scheme. We encourage anyone receiving envelopes or mailer boxes with address or personal details included to dispose of them immediately and securely.’
‘Australia Post urges social media creators to take care when making videos of this nature to avoid revealing customer address details.’
The mishandling of lost or undeliverable mail, which can occur due to incorrect addressing or labels coming off, is a challenge for Australia Post. These items are sent to the Mail Redistribution Centre, where they are opened, catalogued, and, if unclaimed after two months or without a ‘lost mail’ enquiry, may be auctioned for charity.
Theodore Bruce, one of the approved auction houses, has reported selling a variety of unclaimed designer and luxury goods from such packages, including Louis Vuitton handbags, high-end electronics, and designer apparel.
However, Australia Post has clarified that they would never sell ‘mystery’ items. Instead, they auction products from opened packages that have been inspected and are devoid of any identifying markings or labels.
Online users are sharing their thoughts and opinions regarding the mystery box trend, leaving comments on viral unboxing videos online.
‘Something about this feels wrong,’ wrote one commenter on one video.
‘They still have the original shipping labels on it so they are also selling people’s sensitive information. I do not agree with this at all,’ opined another.
‘Ah, so that’s where my customer’s lost items went,’ said someone else.
Meanwhile, others said they were excited to receive their own mystery boxes.
‘I can’t wait to get one of these. I’m addicted to watching people open them,’ commented a different person.
‘I want to buy them as gifts, just wrap the whole box without peeling what’s inside,’ remarked another.
What are your thoughts on this mystery box trend? Share them with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below. Your input could help shed light on this trend and guide others in making informed decisions.
Also read: Signed, sealed… stolen: Australia Post worker’s $400,000 theft busted
These appears to be stollen items to me. How else would they be unopened? Most likely stollen from various houses after the items have been delivered by Aus Post or courier.