If you ever shop at Amazon you'd be wise to take note of the latest advice being issued by the online retail giant. It appears that cyber scams continue to be a major headache for users and getting caught out could end up being hugely costly with crooks getting full access to accounts and payment methods such as credit cards.
"Scammers are creative and they constantly devise new schemes, exploit new technologies and change tactics to avoid detection. Stay safe by learning to identify and avoid scams," Amazon said in an email sent out to its customers today, July 31.
The new attacks are using numerous methods to try and steal account details with online criminals sending out rogue emails, texts and even cold calling Amazon users in the hope they can siphon user names and passwords.
The most common new tactics include calls, texts or emails that refer to a costly membership fee or an issue with your membership - you are then asked to confirm or cancel the charge. The scammers try to convince you to provide payment or bank account information in order to reinstate a membership.
Crooks are also sending out messages that claim your account will be suspended or deleted unless you act quickly. A link is included which asks people to then verify their accounts - these are of course fake and simply send unsuspecting users to an unofficial website where data is hacked.
This sense of urgency is often used by criminals in the hope users will act quickly without thinking first.
"Amazon will never ask you to disclose your password or verify sensitive personal information over the phone or on any website other than Amazon.co.uk," the company confirmed. "Please do not click on any links or provide your information to anyone over the phone without authenticating the email or phone call."
If you use Amazon on a regular basis or have any type of account with the firm here are the top four tips to avoid becoming a victim of cyber theft.
1. Trust Amazon-owned channels.
Always go through the Amazon mobile app or website when seeking customer service, tech support, or when looking to make changes to your account.
2. Be wary of false urgency.
Scammers may try to create a sense of urgency to persuade you to do what they're asking. Be wary any time someone tries to convince you that you must act now.
3. Never pay over the phone.
Amazon will never ask you to provide payment information, including gift cards (or “verification cards,” as some scammers call them) for products or services over the phone.
4. Verify links first.
Legitimate Amazon websites contain "amazon.co.uk" or "amazon.co.uk/support." Go directly to our website when seeking help with Amazon devices/services, orders or to make changes to your account.