The Amazon Scams To Be Aware Of This Holiday Season
Another holiday season means more scammers trying to take your money. Sadly, many of these scammers are technologically savvy, which means you need to always be aware their latest scam tactics.
According to Yahoo News, Amazon is letting shoppers know of scamming tactics happening before Black Friday shopping happens. Although there is an array of different scamming actions, there are two prominent ones that Amazon is letting customers know about.
The first is an email that seems to be from Amazon. The email is warning you that your account might be suspended and is asking for personal information. Getting this email harm your computer with destructive attachments. And it’s fake! Don’t click on any links and don’t reply with any personal information.
The second scam has folks reaching out to Prime members by phone or text, asking them to confirm or cancel services. This is also a trick to try and get your personal information like social security numbers and bank accounts. Replying is a no-no, and definitely don’t give out your info.
Scamming And Stealing Is High Right Now
Although thieves are around all year, this is the time when they seem to roll out in full force. When shopping at a store, always be aware of your surroundings. Being on your phone, especially while walking to your car, can make you a target. Looking around and being aware lets a criminal know that you’re less vulnerable. If you’re not carrying packages, keep your head high and act cocky. Criminals are less likely to target someone if they think that person will give them a hard time or make a scene.
If you’re in a store and feel like you’re being followed, alert an employee. You can also use your phone to begin filming the person. Making yourself loud or causing a scene can deter someone from attacking you. If you’re a child or teen, if you walk up to an adult and say, ‘Hi mom!’ or act like you know them, usually the adult will know what’s happening and keep you safe.
Always keep your car locked and when shopping, hide packages in the trunk or somewhere they’re not visible from your car windows. Park in well-lit or high traffic areas. And if you’re someone that gets into their car after shopping and sits there for a few minutes to look at your phone, don’t do that. Again, this makes you a target as you’re not paying attention to what’s around you. Locking your car doors as soon as you get into it is smart too!
Porch pirates are in full force this time of year too! If you’re having packages delivered and you know you won’t be home, ask a neighbor to grab it for you until you get home. You can also purchase a package lockbox to keep your things safe until you’re home.
Some of these tips are more for women than men, as women are targeting more often. Still, it’s good for everyone to be alert and aware of their surroundings, not just for the holidays, but always. Stay safe! More info on scamming can be found here.
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