How to avoid scams and beware of the fake sites!
Introduction
Amazon Prime customers can encounter various scams targeting shoppers during the upcoming Amazon Prime Day sale starting on July 20. Scammers use fake websites, phishing emails, and phone calls to steal personal and financial information. Here are key points to be cautious of to avoid scams and money loss.
Key Points to Avoid Scams
1. Fake Websites
- Description: Scammers create fake websites that closely resemble Amazon’s official website. These fake websites are often seen in phishing emails, social media, or text messages.
- Tip: Always verify URLs and avoid clicking on suspicious links. Verify that the website URL starts with https://.
- Official Amazon Website: www.amazon.in
2. Phishing Emails and Text SMS
- Description: These messages claim there is an issue with your Amazon account or Amazon Prime membership, prompting you to provide sensitive information like user ID/password and will make you click a malicious link to resolve the issue.
- Tip: Amazon or any Amazon official will never ask for personal details such as user ID, OTP, or payment information like card details, CVV through communication.
3. Phone Call Scams
- Description: Scammers will call you on your registered mobile number, pretending to be Amazon agents or from the customer care department and will make you believe that there is a problem with your account or a recent order. They might request your personal information or payment information like card details, CVV.
- Tip: Amazon advises never to share such information over the phone.
4. Fake Coupons and Promo Codes
- Description: Be cautious of emails and ads offering discount codes for significant savings on Prime Day and also be cautious of ads and forum posts asking for personal info in exchange for coupons. They may seem harmless but are actually attempts to collect emails for marketing. In return, you may receive expired or fake codes.
5. Fake Refund Scams
- Description: Scammers will introduce themselves as Amazon representatives and contact you about a refund for a recent order. They will direct you to a fake website or ask for personal information to process the refund.
- Tip: Avoid clicking on suspicious links and verify the request through Amazon’s official channels.
Websites to Avoid Scams
Avoid these websites to prevent falling victim to scams:
- amazon-in.net
- shopamazon2.com
- shopamazon3.com
- Microsoft-amazom.com
- amazonmxc.shop
- amazonindo.com
- Amazon-activity.com
- Amazonexal.com
- Amazon.com.billing-inquiry.com
- 123.456.789.123/amazon.com
- amazon-store.com
- Amazon.com.billing-inquiry.com
- Amazon-activity.com
- amazonprimevideo.com
- User.amazon.id.com
- Connect.amazon.com
- amazon.us.net
- Amazon.shop1.com
- usiamazon.com
Tips to Have a Safe Shopping Experience
Here are some helpful tips to prevent falling victim to scams during Amazon Prime Day:
- Double-check domain names: Ensure you are on the official Amazon website.
- Stick to Amazon’s official website, app, and stores for purchases.
- Manually enter retailer URLs rather than clicking on potentially harmful links.
- Use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication for your Prime account.
- Beware of fake delivery text messages.
Conclusion
Staying vigilant and informed can help you enjoy a safe and secure shopping experience during Amazon Prime Day. Follow these tips to protect your personal and financial information from scammers.