UPDATE: A new phishing scam is actively targeting Amazon shoppers, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) confirmed today. This urgent warning follows reports of deceptive text messages claiming to offer refunds for recent purchases, preying on consumer trust.
The scam messages purport to be from Amazon, stating there has been a product recall or quality issue that entitles the recipient to a full refund. Recipients are instructed to click on a link to claim their money, falsely assuring them that no return is necessary. However, clicking the link leads to a phishing site designed to steal sensitive personal and financial information.
The FTC has issued immediate guidance for consumers: “If you think a message might be real, don’t trust the contact info in the text. Go directly to the company’s official website or app to check your account.” Officials stress the importance of not interacting with suspicious texts or clicking on any links within them.
Consumers are urged to report any scam texts by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM) or utilizing their phone’s “report junk” option. After reporting, recipients should delete the messages without delay.
To verify any concerns regarding recent purchases, the FTC advises shoppers to log into their Amazon accounts directly, avoiding links provided in unsolicited messages.
This alarming development underscores the ongoing threat of phishing scams, which exploit trusted brands to manipulate consumers. The FTC continues to monitor the situation closely, urging vigilance among all online shoppers.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.