Amazon is one of the world’s largest and most popular online marketplaces, but that popularity makes it an appealing target for scammers. In 2026, fraudsters continue to evolve their tactics, impersonating Amazon, hijacking orders, and exploiting trusting shoppers. Below are seven of the most common scams today, along with practical tips to help you avoid them.
1. Fake “update your order” or “account issue” alerts
Scammers may contact you via email, text, or phone claiming there’s a problem with your order, payment method, or account. They’ll urge you to “confirm payment info” or “update your account,” and may provide a phone number or link for “customer service.” If you respond, you risk exposing your payment information or login credentials.
How to stay safe: Go directly to Amazon’s website or app and check the “Orders” or “Account Settings” section. Amazon will not ask for payment or account updates via unsolicited phone calls, texts, or emails.
2. Phony “you’re owed a refund” scams
One growing scam involves texts or emails saying you’ve been overcharged or qualify for a refund, with instructions to call a “rep” or click a link. Once you do, scammers may ask for remote access or personal information—then drain your accounts.
Tip: If you think Amazon owes you a refund, log in to your account. Don’t use any link or phone number from the message. Amazon’s “Message Center” or “Your Orders” page will show any legitimate refunds.
3. Off-platform payment scams
Some scam sellers list products on Amazon but then ask buyers to complete payment outside Amazon—via P2P apps, gift cards, or other payment methods. This voids Amazon’s buyer protections and often results in no product at all.
Rule of thumb: If a seller asks you to pay outside Amazon (via Zelle, Venmo, gift cards, etc.), walk away. That listing is almost certainly fraudulent.
4. Bargain or too-good-to-be-true listings and mystery boxes
“Mystery box” listings or outrageously cheap deals on high-demand items can be tempting, but many are scams. Often, buyers receive nothing or very low-value items, or may even be exposed to identity theft if personal data is requested.
Better approach: Stick with sellers that look legitimate (strong sales history, verified reviews, complete product photos), and avoid mystery box offers or “limited-time” super-discounted deals.
5. Smishing, phishing, and vishing (fake emails, texts, or calls)
Fraudsters often send phishing emails, fake order confirmations, or even place voice calls claiming to be “Amazon support.” They may ask you to click links, share credentials, or grant remote access to your device. They often mimic Amazon’s branding, making them hard to spot.
What to do: Don’t click links or call numbers from unsolicited messages. Go directly to Amazon’s official site/app, or manually type “amazon.com” in your browser. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) or passkeys to reduce your risk.
6. Fake Amazon Prime or subscription renewal scams
Scammers send fake “Prime renewal” or “membership update” emails—sometimes asking you to “re-confirm payment” or “cancel unwanted auto-renew”—to steal login or credit card information.
Stay alert: Manage Prime and subscription settings only after logging in to your Amazon account directly. Avoid entering payment details from links in emails or texts.
7. Account takeover via impersonation and stolen credentials
With rising impersonation schemes, scammers often try to steal login credentials—sometimes through phishing attacks or compromised “help” sites. Once inside, they can make purchases, change passwords, or even lock you out of your account.
Protect yourself by:
- Using a strong, unique password
- Enabling 2FA or passkeys
- Checking recent orders regularly and monitoring your saved payment methods
Final tips: how to shop smart and stay safe
- Always use Amazon’s official website or mobile app. Never enter credentials via links from emails, texts, or social media ads.
- Turn on two-factor authentication or passkeys for added account security.
- Examine seller information carefully: check reviews, see how long they’ve been selling on Amazon, and look for “Fulfilled by Amazon” when possible.
- If a deal feels “too good to be true,” it probably is—especially with mystery box offers or huge discounts on pricey items.
- Never pay outside Amazon, never share personal information in unsolicited calls/texts/emails, and never grant remote access to your device for “support.”
At Everwise Credit Union, we believe in giving you the knowledge and tools to protect what matters most. Use these tips while shopping on Amazon to stay safe and shop smart!
