Scammers are devising new ways to con innocent customers. Recently, there was a lot of chatter about courier scams where criminals targeted people by scheming on gifts and packages. In these scams, the crooks used names of notable companies to avoid detection. Now, another type of scam related to package delivery has come to light.
Amazon delivery scam
One of the members of The Times of India Tech-Gadgets Now team received an email seemingly from Amazon notifying them about a delivery scam where scammers are trying to obtain payment from customers for Cash on Delivery items that they didn’t even order.
The email also says that scammers also ask users to “verify” the orders by asking for personal information.
We have reached out to Amazon about the confirmation on the email and we’ll update the story when we hear back.
Order confirmation scam
Apart from Cash on Delivery, another type of scam that is prevalent is the order confirmation scam. People are receiving unexpected calls/texts/emails that often refer to an unauthorised purchase and ask you to act urgently to confirm or cancel the purchase.
The scammers try to convince people to provide payment or bank account information, install software on their computer/device, or purchase gift cards.
Amazon India said that it will never send items that its customers aren’t expecting. Those who receive such calls and items must review your Order History, and shipping and delivery information such as customs regulations, rescheduling deliveries and collection information.
“Amazon India will not send you correspondence regarding an order you weren’t expecting. For any question related to an order, always check your orders on Amazon.in or via the “Amazon Shopping” app. Only legitimate purchases will appear in your order history – and Customer Service is available 24/7 to assist,” the email read.
How to identify Amazon delivery scam
Here are some tips to identify scams and keep account information safe:
Always check the Amazon mobile app or website when seeking customer service, tech support, or when looking to make changes to your account.
Don’t fall for the sense of urgency which scammers use to persuade you to do what they’re asking.
Never pay over the phone as Amazon never asks customers to provide payment information, including gift cards for products or services over the phone.
Legitimate Amazon websites contain “amazon.in”, hence, check the website when seeking help from Amazon. Similarly, emails sent by Amazon contain “@amazon.in”.
Amazon India’s ‘MissionGraHAQ’
Earlier this year, Amazon India and the Uttar Pradesh Police announced that they have joined hands to fight fraud and protect online shoppers from bad actors.