Published: July 10, 2023 on our newsletter Security Fraud News & Alerts Newsletter.
Amazon Prime Day has become an eagerly anticipated event for millions of online shoppers worldwide. However, with the increasing popularity of this annual sale extravaganza, scammers all over the world are also devising sophisticated schemes to take advantage of eager and unsuspecting consumers. Every year around this time is a great time to review some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable shopping experience. One thing for certain is that it is crucial to be vigilant and stay informed about potential scams for this event as well as when shopping online anywhere at any time.
For Prime Day in July, Stick to Amazon’s Website or App
When seeking Prime Day deals, it is essential to rely solely on official Amazon channels such as the Amazon website or the official Amazon app. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or pop-up ads that claim to offer exclusive deals. If you haven’t downloaded the app, be sure to get it from the official App store for whatever device you’re using.
Verify Sellers and Reviews
Before making a purchase, thoroughly research the seller's reputation and reviews. Not all items are sold by Amazon. There is a large network of individual sellers that use Amazon for a storefront but may not be directly associated with Amazon at all. While there are protections in place, stick to the sellers with a history of positive customer feedback. Additionally, be cautious of inflated discounts or deals that seem too good to be true. They probably are.
Beware of Phishing Emails and Calls
Cybercriminals may attempt to trick you into revealing personal information through phishing emails or calls. Be cautious of unsolicited emails claiming to be from Amazon, especially those requesting sensitive information. Amazon employees will not directly contact you unless you initiated the call, such as to request support and they should not ask you for your payment information or other sensitive details.
Lookout for Shipping Notification Scams
Shipment scams are abundant all throughout the year, so keep an eye on any uptick during Amazon Prime Day too. If you do get shipping or delivery notifications in email, don’t click on links in the messages or texts. Go directly into your Amazon account for status.
Be Skeptical of Urgent! Limited Stock Claims
Scammers will often make it seems as if they are low on stock and to get the great deal they’re offering, you need to act quickly. Don’t fall for it. Often, these are just cybercriminals waiting to take your money and send you absolutely nothing in return.
Use Secure Payment Methods
Ensure that the payment method you use is secure and reputable. Stick to trusted options such as payment cards or PayPal, which provide added layers of protection. Making payments using wire transfers or prepaid gift cards, as these methods are often favored by scammers and should not be requested by legitimate sellers.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Protect your account by enabling Two-Factor Authentication (sometimes called multi-factor authentication). This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code or some other form of authentication, in addition to your password when signing in.
Amazon Prime Day offers great opportunities to snag some deals, but it's crucial to remain vigilant against scams. By following these tips, you can safeguard your online shopping experience and ensure a secure transaction. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay informed, stay cautious, and enjoy a safe Amazon Prime Day shopping spree!
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