Here’s how to avoid scams on Amazon Prime Day

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) – Reports say more than 40% of Americans are expected to go shopping Tuesday on Amazon Prime Day—and experts are warning against possible scams.

“Amazon Prime Day may be a great opportunity for deals, but it’s crucial to stay alert against scams and predatory practices, ” said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.

“Phishing scams, emails, text messages are out there all year long,” said Troy Baker of the Better Business Bureau. “However, when we get big promotional times like this…you start to see them crop up even more”

Baker says scammers know more people are shopping more during these times—and they take advantage of it.

“Amazon traditionally is one of the most impersonated entities when it comes to scammers,” said Baker.

Baker says this is because so many people are buying things and expecting some sort of email or text confirmation of their orders.

If you’re planning on purchasing anything online, Michigan State Police says there are some red flags to look out for.

“Is there a subject matter? Is it misspelled?” said Lt. Rene Gonzalez. “Does the…email address that you’re getting the message from, does it look legit?”

Gonzalez says to check the beginning and end of the email address for anything that doesn’t look right. He also urges people to be careful opening or clicking on any sort of attachment. Doing so could give a scammer full access to your device and information.

“If you get a text message telling you that, ‘Hey, click on this for a $1500 check’ don’t do that,” continued Gonzalez. “If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.”

Officials say a scammer having access to any of your sensitive information is dangerous, no matter how insignificant it may seem.

“You’ve given scammers the keys to the kingdom,” said Baker. “They know, if they can get your Amazon password, it’s probably the same or pretty close to your email, to your bank account, to all the other things you don’t want people getting into.”

Experts say scammers can make IDs, open loans, and even buy cars in your name if they have the right data.

If you or a loved one thinks you may have fallen victim to an online scam, they suggest taking immediate action and changing any login or password that may be compromised. You should also lock down any account you’re worried about and file a police report.

Remember, no big company will ask you for any personal or sensitive information over the phone or via email.

You can report scams here: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/

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