Beware of fake deals as Prime Day approaches
AI-powered scams are sweeping in before Prime Day, as fraudsters ditch subtlety and attack shoppers with alarmingly lifelike messages.
A surge in online scams is expected ahead of Amazon’s Prime Day, which runs from 8 to 11 July, as fraudsters use increasingly sophisticated tactics. Advice Direct Scotland is issuing a warning to shoppers across Scotland: AI-enhanced phishing emails, bogus renewal notices, and fake refund offers are on the rise.
In one common ruse, scammers impersonate Amazon in messages stating your Prime membership has expired or that your account needs urgent verification. Others go further, claiming your Amazon account has been hacked and demanding remote access to your device, something the real company never does. Victims in Scotland reportedly lost around £860,000 last year to similar crime, as scam technology becomes more convincing.
Advice Direct Scotland reminds shoppers not to rush and to trust their instincts. Genuine Amazon communications will never ask for remote access, passwords, or financial information over email or phone. If in doubt, hang up and check your account via official channels, or reach out to the charity’s ScamWatch hotline.
Those seeking guidance can contact Advice Direct Scotland via phone or online chat, or report suspected scams using the free ScamWatch tool. With Prime Day bargains tempting many, staying vigilant could mean avoiding a costly mistake.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!