By Julian Castillo
03 Jul 2024, 11:21 AM EDT
He Amazon Prime Day is just around the corner, with dates set for July 16 and 17. This event is a great opportunity to score great deals, but it’s also a time when scammers are looking to take advantage of the situation. During Prime Day 2023, a significant increase in phishing scams was reportedwith suspicious emails increasing from 5,000 to 14,000 per week in the United States. To help you shop safely, here are the top five tips you should follow to avoid falling victim to scams.
1. Check your purchases directly on Amazon
One of the most common methods of scam is phishing, where Scammers send emails that appear to be from Amazon, stating that there is a problem with a purchase or that a transaction needs to be verified. Never click on the links in these emails. Instead, Sign in directly to your Amazon account or use the mobile app to review your purchase historyThis way, you can confirm whether the communication is legitimate without exposing yourself to risks.
2. Use only official Amazon channels
Amazon will never ask you to make payments by phone or email. All payments must be processed through the Amazon mobile app, their website, or at an Amazon physical store. If you receive a phone call or email requesting that you make a payment or wire transfer, Ignore the request and report the suspicious activity to AmazonIt is crucial to understand that Amazon does not request payments through third-party websites.
3. Beware of false urgency
Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly without thinking. They may say that your account will be suspended or that you will lose a special offer if you don’t act immediately. Don’t fall for these pressure tactics. Please take your time to verify any information directly with Amazon. and never feel compelled to perform under pressure.
4. Avoid buying with gift cards
Amazon will never ask you to purchase gift cards as a payment methodThis is a common method used by scammers because gift cards are difficult to trace. If someone asks you to make a purchase using gift cards, this is a clear sign of a scam.To learn more about these types of scams, visit Amazon’s help pages.
5. Contact Amazon directly if you have any questions
If you ever have doubts about the legitimacy of a communication or request, the safest thing to do is Stop interacting with the potential scammer and contact Amazon directly. Use the official app or website for help. Do not call numbers provided in text messages, suspicious emails, or found in online search results. Amazon will not ask you to download software or pay for customer service support.
Stay Informed and Safe
Prime Day is a great opportunity to get fantastic dealsbut it is also a time when we should be extra cautious. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams and enjoy your shopping with peace of mind. In addition, Amazon is committed to educating consumers and providing resources to identify and avoid scams. For example, In the United States, Amazon has partnered with the Better Business Bureau to offer a scam tracker where consumers can verify suspicious communications reported by others.
The key to a safe Prime Day shopping experience is caution and using official channels for all your interactions with Amazon. Stay informed, follow these tips, and enjoy your shopping without worries.
Keep reading:
– TikTok wants to compete with Amazon and launches its own sales event
– Amazon announced the dates for Prime Day 2024: discounts and offers in sight
– Amazon’s 10th annual Prime Day event returns on July 16 and 17 with millions of exclusive deals for Amazon Prime members