Amazon Impersonation Scams

What Is an Amazon Impersonation Scam?

Amazon impersonation scams happen when a scammer pretends to be from Amazon. They might contact you through phone calls, emails, or text messages, claiming there’s a problem with your account or a suspicious order you didn’t place. Their goal? To get your personal info, payment details, or even remote access to your device.

These scams work by creating panic — like saying your account will be locked or you’ve been charged hundreds of dollars — to trick you into acting fast without thinking.

How Common Are These Scams?

Amazon continues to be one of the most impersonated companies in the world. In 2024 alone, there were around 34,000 reported cases of Amazon-related scams.

The most common tactics include:

• Fake order confirmations that ask you to call or click a link.

• Phishing emails that lead to fake Amazon login pages.

• Phone calls claiming there’s suspicious activity on your account.

• Text messages prompting you to verify account info or reset your password.

Real-World Example

Scammer: "Hello, this is John from Amazon Security. We've detected a $1,200 purchase on your account for a MacBook. Did you authorize this transaction?"

Victim: "No, I didn’t make that purchase."

Scammer: "In that case, your account may have been compromised. To secure it, please provide your login credentials and install our security software via this link.

(That “security software” is actually malware, and the login info goes straight to the scammer.)

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify communications. If you get a call, text, or email, go directly to your Amazon account via the official app or website — never trust a link or phone number sent to you out of the blue.

• Don’t rush. Scammers use scare tactics to make you act fast. Take a breath, slow down, and double-check everything.

• Check email senders and links. Make sure any email claiming to be from Amazon comes from @amazon.com, and hover over links before clicking.

• Never share personal info. Amazon will never ask you to give out your password, Social Security number, or payment info over the phone or in an unsolicited email.

• Report suspicious activity. If something doesn’t feel right, report it to Amazon’s customer service and to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Want to keep yourself and others safe from scams like this? Share this article and help spread awareness. Stay alert — and always double-check before you click!