“Hello, this is Amazon!” Anyone who hears this greeting on the phone should be suspicious. Fraudsters are targeting data and access with this and similar scams. Now even the police are warning.
Scammers like to use the big names of Amazon and PayPal for their scams. Because here they scent quick money or the access data lure inexperienced users. But the companies mentioned do not call their customers, warns that Lower Saxony State Criminal Police Office on his home page. Anyone who receives such a call should therefore hang up immediately and under no circumstances allow themselves to be persuaded to do anything. But how exactly do you recognize the current fake calls?
Fraudsters are after money and access data
For example, the calls allegedly coming from Amazon or PayPal say: “In the next 24 hours, 850 euros will be debited from your account. For more information, press 1.” If the called party does so, they are forwarded. A conversation partner then tries to get the victim to install an app, enter data or present a credit card.
If you hang up immediately or after the call has been forwarded, you have nothing to fear. However, anyone who has been persuaded to do various things and then recognizes the fraud must act quickly.
Also read: Amazon customers should currently check their emails carefully
Become a victim of fake calls? This is to do
Despite all the warnings, there are always people who fall for the fake calls made on behalf of Amazon or PayPal. In these cases, quick action is required. Those affected should do this:
Access data tapped
In this case, those affected should immediately change their access data via the real service of the provider. If possible, also secure the user account using two-factor authentication (2FA). Also note which devices have already been approved for use and delete unknown or unauthorized devices. Take screenshots as evidence. And inform the appropriate real customer service too.
Credit codes sent
If the fraudsters picked up credit codes via the fake call on behalf of Amazon, they have probably already redeemed them within a few minutes. The State Criminal Police Office advises trying to contact the provider to block the account. Also, do not discard the cards.
Credit card information passed on
If the alleged call from PayPal or Amazon led to access to online banking or if credit card data was transmitted, those affected should contact their responsible bank immediately. They should then report it to the local police. Bring evidence with you, such as prepaid cards used, or show any text messages you may have received with links. Give the police as much detail as possible about what the scammers told you to do.
With material from dpa