Deal or Deception? Surviving Prime Day Scams
Published: July 16th, 2024.
The countdown has begun. Amazon's annual Prime Day sale is about to kick off, promising irresistible deals on gadgets, gizmos, and everything in between. Prime Day, from July 16 to 17, 2024, is a global shopping event where eager shoppers dive into the frenzy, hoping to snag the best discounts.
However, cybercriminals are lurking in the shadows of this digital marketplace, ready to turn your shopping spree into a nightmare. Here’s how to navigate the treacherous waters of Prime Day and protect yourself from scams.
Content
An Alarming Surge in Scams
Cybersecurity firm Check Point Research (CPR) uncovered some alarming findings in 2023. In June alone, nearly 1,500 new domains related to Amazon were created, with a staggering 92% deemed risky—either malicious or suspicious. The 16-fold increase in Amazon Prime-related phishing attacks from May to June was particularly concerning, highlighting the need for extra caution.
Scott Knapp, Amazon’s director of worldwide buyer risk prevention, notes that scam activity triples during Prime Day. “They’ll say there’s a problem with your Prime membership, and if you’ll just pay this money, we’ll fix it,” Knapp says. “They’ll say, ‘Just give us your credit card, and we’ll make it go away.’”
Types of Prime Day Scams
Fake websites
One of the most common tactics involves fake websites that closely mimic Amazon’s official site. These sites often trick users into entering personal and payment information. Always double-check the URL; if it doesn’t start with “Amazon.com,” it’s likely a scam. Look for subtle differences, like misspellings or unusual punctuation.
Phishing emails and texts
Scammers frequently send emails or texts that appear to be from Amazon, claiming issues with orders or Prime memberships. These messages often include links to malicious sites. Instead of clicking on the links in these messages, go directly to the Amazon app or website to verify any claims.
Scam phone calls
Some consumers report receiving phone calls from individuals posing as Amazon representatives. These scammers often create a sense of urgency, asking for credit card information to resolve fake issues. Remember, Amazon will never ask for payment details over the phone. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and report it to Amazon.
How to Protect Yourself
Use strong security measures
Ensure your Amazon account is secure by using a strong, unique password and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of security, requiring a second verification form to access your account.
Verify the source
Always verify the source of any communication claiming to be from Amazon. For emails, check the sender’s address carefully. For phone calls, contact Amazon directly through their official customer service channels.
Look for secure connections
When shopping online, make sure the website has SSL encryption, which is visible as a lock icon in the browser's address bar. If this icon is missing, avoid making a purchase.
Be skeptical of too-good-to-be-true deals
Deals that seem unbelievably good are often scams. Tony Sabaj, Check Point’s head of Americas channel engineering, advises shoppers to be wary of overly generous deals. “Nobody is going to give away an 80-inch TV for $20. It’s a hoax,” he says.
Reporting Scams
If you encounter a scam, report it immediately. Most email programs have options to report spam or phishing. You can also forward scam text messages to 7726 (SPAM). Report them to Amazon through their app or website for Prime Day scams.
Additional Tips for Safe Shopping
- Go directly to retailer websites: Type the URL directly into your browser instead of clicking on links in emails or texts. This reduces the risk of being redirected to a fake site
- Check your orders: If you receive a message about an order you didn’t place, go directly to “My Orders” on Amazon’s website or app to verify its authenticity
- Use a credit card: Credit cards often offer better fraud protection than debit cards. If fraudulent charges appear, you can dispute them without being out of pocket immediately
- Report fake reviews: Be wary of short, overly positive reviews. Use tools like Fakespot or ReviewMeta to evaluate the credibility of reviews
- Educate yourself: Stay informed about the latest scam tactics. Cybercriminals continuously evolve their methods, so staying updated can help you spot potential threats
Final Thoughts
Prime Day is an exciting time for shoppers, filled with amazing deals and opportunities. By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can enjoy the thrill of the hunt without falling prey to cybercriminals. With caution and common sense, you can make the most of Prime Day, snagging those unbeatable bargains while keeping your personal information safe. Happy shopping, and may your cart be filled with fantastic finds!