Online retail giant Amazon has warned users to watch out for scammers vying to steal their personal information.
The retailer recently deleted thousands of unsafe websites and phone numbers that were being utilised by scammers, after they were flagged by Amazon customers, The Express reported.
In an email, Amazon said that it had taken down more than 20,000 phishing websites and 10,000 phone numbers that were being used as "impersonation scams."
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“Phishing” is the method by which criminals use scam through emails, text messages or phone calls to illicit information from users.
The objective is often to make you visit a website, which will hit your computer with a virus and then steal your banking information.
They added that hundreds of online criminals were brought to the attention of the authorities in a bid to clamp down on scams.
The retailer provided a number of pointers to ensure when shopping with Amazon, that you don't fall prey to these cyber criminals.
Take care when installing apps or software
Amazon said they will never request you to install an app or download software to receive a refund or to get help from customer service.
Do not pay over the phone
Payment information will never be asked over the phone. This includes gift cards (or “verification cards”, as some scammers call them), for products or services over the phone.
Verify orders directly with Amazon
The retailer will not call, text, or email you concerning an order you aren’t expecting, and ask you to urgently confirm the purchase.
Check Your Orders on Amazon.co.uk or via the “Amazon Shopping” app if there are any concerns.
Be wary of false urgency
Amazon does not apply urgency to tell you to pay right now.
Scammers may attempt to create a sense of urgency to get you to do what they're asking.
They asked that customers flag any suspicious communication they receive, whether it's a call, text, or email.
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