Amazon Prime Day Sale is right around the corner, and consumers are being cautioned about potential scams. Scheduled to commence at midnight on July 20 IST and conclude at midnight on July 21, the event has historically seen a rise in fraudulent activities such as phishing attempts and deceptive emails impersonating online retailers like Amazon. The Better Business Bureau, as reported by the Associated Press, highlights these risks, emphasising the heightened vulnerability during major sales events.
"This is a huge moment on the retail calendar," Josh Planos, Vice President of Communications and Public Relations at the Better Business Bureau, told AP "And because of that, it represents an enormous opportunity for a scammer, con artist or even just an unethical business or organisation to capitalise on the moment and separate folks from their hard-earned money."
Vigilance Against Counterfeits
Prime Day, exclusively available to Amazon Prime members, spans two days. Recent guidance from the Better Business Bureau urges vigilance against counterfeit websites, overly enticing social media advertisements, and unexpected communications during these peak shopping times.
With phishing reports hitting record highs in 2023, and continuing to trend upwards this year, consumers are advised to exercise increased caution. Check Point Software Technologies has identified over 1,230 suspicious websites associated with Amazon just in June, underscoring the scale of potential threats.
Scott Knapp, Director of Worldwide Buyer Risk Prevention at Amazon, highlighted common scams involving Prime membership and fake order confirmations, where scammers seek sensitive information under false pretences, reported AP. Experts caution that these scams are evolving with more sophisticated tactics, including convincing visuals and urgent language to manipulate consumers.
Significant Rise In Fraud Losses
The US Federal Trade Commission reported a significant increase in fraud losses, reaching $10 billion in 2023, with online shopping scams ranking among the most frequently reported. Both the FTC and the Better Business Bureau provide ongoing guidance to help consumers protect themselves, including tips on identifying secure websites and recognising suspicious communications.
In addition to impersonation scams, shoppers are warned about the proliferation of counterfeit products and fake reviews, particularly prevalent on major e-commerce platforms. Vigilance and research are recommended, especially when encountering prices significantly below market rates or unfamiliar sellers.
What Steps Has Amazon Taken?
Amazon, responding to these challenges, has reportedly taken steps to remove millions of counterfeit products and block billions of misleading listings. The company encourages customers to report fraudulent activities directly on its platform, promising proactive measures to address counterfeit issues and ensure customer satisfaction.
As consumers gear up for Prime Day, the emphasis remains on staying informed and cautious to avoid falling victim to scams amidst the excitement of online shopping extravaganzas.