Shoppers Alert: AI Scams Target Tesco and Amazon Customers
New research from consumer group Which? has issued an urgent warning to online shoppers, revealing a surge in sophisticated AI-driven scams impersonating major retailers such as Tesco and Amazon. The investigation identified over 28,000 unsafe websites in January alone, designed to deceive consumers into handing over personal information for identity fraud.
How the Scams Operate
Scammers are employing advanced tactics like typosquatting and digital squatting to create fraudulent websites that mimic legitimate brands. These fake sites often lure victims through scam text messages, tricking them into entering sensitive details including names, addresses, and email information. Commonly impersonated brands extend beyond Tesco and Amazon to include Google, Microsoft, Gemini, ChatGPT, and Boots, highlighting the broad scope of this threat.
Alarming Rise in Fraudulent Activity
The data shows a significant increase in these scams, with digital squatting incidents rising by 68 per cent from 2021 to 2025. This trend underscores the growing sophistication of cybercriminals who leverage AI technology to enhance their deceptive practices. Victims are at high risk of identity fraud, as scammers use the stolen data for malicious purposes.
Calls for Action and Protection Measures
In response to the escalating threat, Which? is advocating for stronger protective measures. The consumer group is urging online platforms to proactively scan for fraudulent content and for telecoms companies to block text messages containing links to known scam websites. These steps aim to curb the spread of these dangerous schemes and safeguard consumers from financial and personal harm.
Shoppers are advised to remain vigilant, verify website URLs carefully, and avoid clicking on suspicious links in text messages. As AI scams become more prevalent, awareness and caution are crucial in preventing identity fraud.
