Amazon Prime Day is a highly anticipated event for consumers, but experts are warning about the increased risk of scams during this time. Phishing attempts tend to surge during major sales events like Prime Day, with scammers trying to take advantage of the heightened online shopping activity. The Better Business Bureau advises consumers to be cautious of fake emails, lookalike websites, and suspicious social media ads that may lead to financial loss.
Reports of phishing scams have been on the rise, with a record number of incidents reported in 2023. Cybersecurity experts have identified over 1,230 new websites associated with Amazon in June, the majority of which were deemed malicious or suspicious. Amazon customers have been targeted with scams related to Prime membership and fake order confirmations, often seeking personal or payment information.
To combat these scams, Amazon is leveraging technology like artificial intelligence to detect and prevent fraudulent activities. The company urges customers to verify their purchases and messages directly on the official app or website. Online shopping scams have become more sophisticated over the years, with scammers using convincing tactics to deceive consumers.
Aside from impersonation scams, consumers are also advised to watch out for counterfeit products and fake reviews on popular online marketplaces. Counterfeit items have become harder to detect, but consumers can look for red flags such as unusually low prices compared to the market rate. Amazon has taken steps to remove millions of counterfeit products and block fraudulent listings from its platform.
It's crucial for consumers to remain vigilant, especially during high-spending periods, and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities. By following best practices like avoiding unsolicited messages, verifying website security, and trusting their instincts, consumers can protect themselves from falling victim to online scams.
