UK Amazon shoppers are being warned about a phone-based scam that has already cost victims more than £86,000 in October alone, according to Report Fraud. Criminals are impersonating Amazon representatives in convincing phone calls, a shift from the fake emails and texts previously used.
How the scam works
Fraudsters call victims claiming suspicious items have been added to their Amazon basket. They provide a delivery address that does not belong to the customer and suggest someone is trying to use their bank details for unauthorised purchases.
The caller then offers to stop the transactions and secure the account, guiding victims through fake security steps. These can include sharing their screen via messaging apps and handing over sensitive documents such as a passport or driving licence for supposed verification.
Remote access danger
In some cases, victims are told to download remote access software. Once installed, this allows criminals to take control of a computer or device, potentially accessing personal information and carrying out financial transactions.
Chief Superintendent Amanda Wolf, Head of Report Fraud Operations, said: “Fraudsters are increasingly successful when they can make their approach feel ordinary. A call about an account issue, a delivery problem or suspicious activity can catch any of us off guard, particularly when it appears to come from a brand we know and trust.
“The best defence is to pause. Criminals want people to react quickly; we want people to take a moment, challenge what they're being told and verify it through a trusted route.
“Whether somebody claims to be from Amazon, your bank, the police or any other organisation, don't feel pressured into acting immediately. End the conversation, find the genuine contact details yourself and make contact independently.
“A few moments of caution can make all the difference.”
Amazon's response and safety advice
An Amazon spokesperson said: “Scammers that attempt to impersonate Amazon put consumers at risk, and there are a variety of scams that ask people to make payments by email, phone, or text for items or services.
“Be wary any time someone tries to convince you that you must act now - scammers may try to create a sense of urgency to persuade you to do what they're asking, and they use convincing tactics to reel consumers in.
“We encourage consumers to report suspected scams to us so that we can protect their accounts and refer bad actors to law enforcement to help keep them safe.”
To avoid falling victim, remember that genuine companies, banks and police officers will never phone out of the blue to ask for money transfers, sensitive financial information, or remote access to your computer. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up, and never follow instructions to download software, share your screen, or hand over personal documents.
