Amazon Prime Day is one of the biggest shopping events of the year and like any discount day, there is a rush to get the best deals.
Cifas, the UK’s leading fraud prevention service, is warning members of the public to stay alert of shopping scams ahead of Amazon Prime Day on the 21 st and 22 nd June.
In the excitement, it's easy to miss the red flags of a scam which is what online criminals count on when they set their traps.
The warning comes amidst reports of website domains being registered online with the intention of impersonating Amazon.
According to Idealo, last year saw phishing and fraudulent sites surged 2.5 times days before the event, which was the biggest rise since the pandemic started.
Amazon says that fraudsters are experts at impersonating businesses, using email, call or text messages in an attempt to obtain people's sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, one-time passcodes, access to devices and credit card or bank details.
Cifas is reminding consumers to take a moment before clicking on links and providing personal details.
Cifas’ Head of Fraud Intelligence, Amber Burridge, said: "Criminals will be trying to take advantage of the annual Amazon Prime Day event and tempt consumers into handing over their personal and financial details.
"The event is designed to provide consumers with deals on the latest brands and products, meaning criminals’ attempts to fool unsuspecting consumers will appear more genuine.
'It is vital consumers are on their guard when clicking on links or adverts.
"Providing simple personal details to a fraudster, such as a name, date of birth and address, could see individuals targeted by criminals becoming victims of identity fraud.
'If you think you’ve been the victim of a scam, then report it to your bank and Action Fraud, or Police Scotland immediately.
"You may also want to consider taking out a Protective Registration with Cifas, which will help protect you from identity fraud."
Amazon will never contact you and ask for the following:
- Your Amazon Password
- Remote access to your computer
- Credit, Debit or Bank Details
- To enter an Amazon one-time passcode anywhere outside of the Amazon platform
- To make payment outside of the Amazon platform
An Amazon spokesperson said: "If you have clicked on a link within an e-mail or text message, or shared personal details and are concerned your account information may be at risk, please contact us.
"If you have provided financial information such as banking or direct debit details, contact your bank or building society immediately."
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