25 July 2023 , 14:11
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Amazon has warned its customers of a new scam which is currently doing the rounds.
Customers are receiving an email, text or phone call from someone claiming to be from Amazon, telling them there is a problem with their account.
The person goes on to claim their account will be suspended or deleted unless they verify their details and accept a large membership fee.
They are then asked to provide their email, password and payment information - either verbally or through a dodgy link - to "reinstate" the account.
If you're approached like this, don't hand over your details - this is a scam and the person on the other end definitely is not from Amazon.
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Amazon would not ask for personal account details or payment information for any of its products or services over the phone, text or email.
If you are a Prime member you can go directly to your Amazon account to make payments or check your subscription status.
Amazon also reminded customers that they can visit it'#s official Message Centre on the Amazon website or app to check which emails have come from Amazon.
Amazon said: "Scammers are creative and they constantly devise new schemes, exploit technologies and change tactics to avoid detection, stay safe by learning to identify and avoid scams."
The retailer then shared advice for customers to help them spot potential scams in the future.
Only trust Amazon-owned channels
Amazon told its customers that they should always use the official Amazon app or website when seeking customer service or making changes to their account.
If they are redirected away from the usual Amazon sources, asked to use a third-party site, or asked to verbally confirm something over the phone - then it could be a scam and your details may be at risk.
Verify links
The retailer urged customers to also double check the URL before doing anything - particularly if they are sent a suspicious email or text.
It said: "Legitimate Amazon sites contain 'amazon.com' as part of the URL or will look like 'amazon.co.uk/support'.
"Some false sites may try to disguise their identity by replacing letters with similar characters or adding extra elements to the main URL."
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"If you're unsure about a link and need help with your Amazon account then the safest option is to navigate to the website directly."
Be cautious if you're being rushed
Scammers like to create a sense of false urgency to persuade you that what they're asking for needs to be done quickly or you risk losing your account.
If you feel you are being rushed into providing information or making a decision then take a moment to step back and assess the situation as it could be a scam.
Amazon added: "If you have any doubts, end the communication there and reach out through official channels to verify your account status."