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What should my next step be? to protect myself?

I recently shipped out a Reddit Secret Santa (a online gift exchange) order with the message " from your secret santa" to the provided shipping address. I sell clocks that are legal for all age, so no big deal. Standard with all gift packages, I also included my contact information, in case anything arrives defective and requires an exchange.

However, a mother has now contacted me, demanding to know the buyer's identity/ his payment method / why a "stranger" is shipping her minor daughter expensive present from the Internet.

I have since contacted the buyer and relayed a couple of explanations between them. I have also refused to disclose buyer's payment information randomly without consent. However, the stubborn mother has escalated it and alerted her local police, threatening that the gift has included my note and she has my return shipping address.

Definitely, I don't think I have done anything wrong, but what can I do next to protect myself legally / generally ?

98 Responses

save every email and contact the local police in that area and explain the situation.

edit, and see if you can get any legal help as well.
Have you contacted an attorney?
Whoa, she's freaking out, huh? I'd just explain it's a secret santa thing and not to worry...however, I'm guessing you've already done that.

I'd let the mother know that you'll be contacting the police if she contacts you again, and that she's harrassing you. Let her know that you understand that she's alerted her police station, and that you're sure you'll be able to answer any questions that they have.

Sorry you're dealing with this...sounds like she needs to chat with her kid.
WJW
OMG......I'm so sorry to to hear. I agree with Ruth, save all the emails & any other information that you have.
This woman should be questioning her daughter, not you!

Good idea not to tell her anything; let the police handle it, if they decide to get involved. You're an innocent third party who fulfilled an order from a paying customer. If the gift came from Amazon, you can bet they wouldn't be in trouble for sending it!
what is this 'Secret Santa' thing, is it something the daughter signed up for?


ETA: your item may be appropriate for all ages but how do you know the Secret Santa isnt a stalker/pedophile targeting this girl?

Wow this is a new one, I wish you luck. As the others said save everything and try to I get this mother chilled down. You were just doing your job, I've sent many "secret Santa" type gifts this season.
You can post a legal question at AVVO.com. I have used this site before when needing legal questions answered and have received effective/helpful advice. At the very least, they will point you in the right direction. Hope this helps.

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