A concerning new phishing scam is circulating via text message, targeting unsuspecting individuals with a fraudulent promise of an Amazon refund. If you receive a message like this, it is important to know the signs of a scam and what steps to take to protect yourself.
What the Scam Message Says
A recent example of the scam reads:
“Thank you for your recent purchase at Amazon. Our commitment to maintaining high standards of quality means we routinely monitor orders… Following a recent evaluation, we found that one of the items in your order may not entirely meet the description… please click this secure link…”
This message attempts to mimic Amazon’s tone and formatting, but there are several clear indicators that it is not legitimate. Here’s some ways you can identify issues with this message.
How to Identify This Message as a Scam
1. Group Message to Multiple Recipients
Legitimate companies, including Amazon, do not send mass messages to multiple recipients at once. If a message includes a list of phone numbers or is part of a group chat, it is almost certainly fraudulent.
2. Suspicious and Shortened Links
The message includes a shortened URL (e.g., bit.ly/4jBriIH?bb=OTZxuT). Shortened links are commonly used by scammers to disguise malicious websites designed to steal your personal information.
3. Vague Language and Missing Details
The message does not mention your name, order number, or the item in question. A genuine Amazon communication would include these specifics and be accessible through your Amazon account, not via a random text.
4. Excessive Use of Formatting
The message uses an unusual amount of bold and stylized text to appear official. Authentic Amazon messages are clearly formatted and concise, without relying on these tactics.
5. Urgent Language
Scam messages often use urgency to pressure you into clicking a link or providing personal information quickly, without thinking it through.
What You Should Do
If you receive a message like this:
- Do not click any links.
- Do not reply to the message.
- Do not share it with others without context or warning.
Instead, take a screenshot of the message and report it to the appropriate authorities.
How to Report Scam Text Messages in Canada
If you are in Canada, you can report these messages to the following:
1. Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC)
- Website: https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca
- Reporting tool: https://www.services.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/chooser-eng.html?ipeReferer=CAFCFRS
- Phone: 1-888-495-8501
2. Your Mobile Service Provider
- Forward the message to 7726 (which spells “SPAM”) to report it directly to your wireless carrier. Most Canadian carriers participate in this program to help block fraudulent messages.
3. Amazon
- You can report phishing messages directly to Amazon through their official website: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/help/report-fraud
Final Thoughts
Scammers are continually refining their tactics to appear more credible, but they often leave behind clear signs of fraud. Always be cautious with unsolicited messages, particularly those that involve money, urgency, or requests for personal information. When in doubt, navigate directly to the company’s official website and contact support through verified channels.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can help protect yourself and others from fraud.
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