Devon & Cornwall Police Cyber Protect are warning the public about a scam involving fraudsters impersonating Amazon.
Victims receive an unexpected telephone call from someone claiming to be from Amazon. The caller states that an unauthorised purchase, often a high-value item such as an iPhone, has been attempted on their account and that action is required to prevent the order from being processed.
The caller then asks the victim to read out a verification code that has been sent to their mobile phone or WhatsApp account. In reality, this code is being generated because the fraudster is attempting to gain access to the victim’s Amazon account. If the code is disclosed, the criminal may be able to take control of the account.
How to Spot the Scam
🚩 You receive an unexpected call claiming to be from Amazon.
🚩 The caller creates a sense of urgency by claiming a suspicious purchase has been made.
🚩 You are asked to provide a one-time passcode, verification code or security code.
🚩 The caller pressures you to act immediately.
🚩 You are asked to verify your identity over the phone.
Protect Yourself
✅ Never share one-time passcodes, verification codes or multi-factor authentication (MFA) codes with anyone.
✅ Remember that genuine organisations will never ask you to disclose security codes that have been sent to your device.
✅ If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately.
✅ Check your Amazon account directly using the Amazon app or website. Do not use contact details provided by the caller.
✅ Enable multi-factor authentication on your online accounts and use strong, unique passwords.
✅ Take a moment to Stop, Think and Check before responding to unexpected requests.
If You Have Already Shared a Code
🔹 Change your Amazon password immediately.
🔹 Regularly review your account for any unauthorised activity.
🔹 Enable or review your multi-factor authentication settings.
🔹 Contact Amazon Customer Services through official and thoroughly trusted channels.
Remember: Never share a security code with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. A genuine security code is for your use only.
Reporting
If you are a victim of Cybercrime or Fraud
🌐 Report online here: UK’s Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud – Report Fraud
📞 Or call: 0300 123 2040
📞 To quickly contact your bank dial 159
👥Please share this advice with friends, family, and colleagues.