Amazon refund scam

If You See This Message, Your Amazon Account Is Under Attack

A new warning has just been issued for millions of Amazon users, as a new wave of attacks on accounts has suddenly surged 5000%. These attacks are being carried out via text messages, a growing scam method that includes fake delivery updates, unpaid tolls, and now fake Amazon refund alerts.

So-called “Amazon refund scam texts” have increased dramatically, especially after Prime Day promotions. The scammers behind these messages are not affiliated with Amazon and likely don’t even know you’re an Amazon customer—they're simply playing the odds, and unfortunately, it works far too often.

The link in the message leads to a fake Amazon website designed to steal your login credentials and personal information. These messages may also try to bypass your instincts by using short links and a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly.

How the Scam Works

• You receive a text message claiming to be from Amazon about a refund or suspicious order.
• The message provides a link to click or a phone number to call to "resolve" the issue.
• Clicking the link takes you to a fake website that looks like Amazon and asks you to log in.
• Your login details are captured by the scammer, potentially allowing access to your real Amazon account.

Amazon’s Advice to Stay Safe

• Verify purchases through official channels: Do not respond to texts. Instead, log into your Amazon account via the app or website to check order history.
• Trust the app and official website only: Amazon will never ask for payment or personal info via phone call, text, or email. Any transactions should only occur through the Amazon app, website, or physical store.
• Watch out for false urgency: Scammers want you to panic so you’ll act fast. Take a breath and verify before clicking or responding.
• Never buy gift cards on demand: Amazon will never ask you to pay for anything using gift cards. If a message requests this, it’s a scam.
• Do not call phone numbers from texts: Always use Amazon’s support contact options in the app or on the website.
• Don’t install software: Amazon will not ask you to install software or apps to connect with customer service.
• Use Amazon’s Scam Tracker: You can review suspicious emails, phone numbers, or URLs reported by others at the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker.

FTC Consumer Warning

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has also issued a warning about this new scam, describing it as “scammy texts offering refunds for Amazon purchases.”

These messages might claim a product you purchased failed a quality inspection and you’re entitled to a refund—no return required. But the only goal is to get you to click a link that leads to phishing pages designed to steal your personal or financial data.

What to Do If You Receive One of These Messages

• Delete the message immediately. Do not click any links or respond.
• Log into your Amazon account directly to verify any legitimate messages or notifications.
• Report the scam through Amazon's website or app.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) or passkeys on your Amazon account for added security.
• Stay alert and educate others—especially those who may be more vulnerable to these types of scams.

Final Thought

These scams are not targeting specific people—they’re betting that a percentage of the messages they send will hit someone who recently made a purchase. That’s why vigilance is key.

Remember: if you receive a message that feels off, don’t engage. Go directly to the source—Amazon’s website or app—to verify. That simple step could save you from fraud.

If you don’t engage, you don’t get scammed.