Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNET
You've just received a text message that appears to be from Amazon. In it, the online retailer says that an item you recently purchased failed a routine inspection, is being recalled, or isn't up to Amazon's standards. As a result, you're due a full refund -- sometimes without even having to return the product. You just have to select a link in the message to claim your refund.
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Ah, but don't do it. That's right, it's a scam.
Fraudulent text messages
On Thursday, the US Federal Trade Commission issued a warning about fraudulent text messages promising people refunds from Amazon. By tricking you into tapping the link in the message, the scammers are looking to steal your money or personal information. In this case, following the link likely takes you to a phishing page where the crooks may prompt you to enter your Amazon account credentials, payment info, and contact details.
Also: Got a suspicious UPS text? Don't reply - it might be a scam. Here's how to tell
This is hardly the first time that Amazon and its customers have been targeted by scammers.
In one popular swindle, you receive an email or text message claiming that you bought or subscribed to a product or service for a large amount of money. But you know you didn't actually buy that product or service. When you call the number listed in the message to complain, the scammers ask for your account and payment info, which they can then use to hijack your account or sell to other criminals on the dark web.
How to protect yourself from the latest Amazon scam
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