Amazon is gearing up to launch another of its Prime Day sale events this week, promising shoppers a plethora of massive bargains.
The dels will begin on July 16 and will run for 48 hours, with Amazon already teasing discounts on its own brand devices as well as price cuts on gadgets from popular brands.
While it’s undoubtedly good news for bargain hunters, it also comes with a stark warning.
Cybersecurity experts are cautioning Amazon shoppers about the potential risk of scams during Prime Day, with online fraudsters looking to exploit the event for their gain.
The team at Check Point has revealed that an alarming 1,230 new domains associated with Amazon cropped up in June 2024, with a staggering 85 percent of them flagged as malicious or suspicious.
In a statement, Check Point said: “As we approach Amazon Prime Day, online shoppers eagerly anticipate incredible deals and exclusive offers.
“However, amidst the excitement, there is an underlying risk that cannot be ignored. Cyber criminals leverage this occasion to carry out phishing attacks, preying on unsuspecting shoppers.
“These attackers employ deceptive tactics, such as sending fake emails or creating fraudulent websites, aiming to steal personal information or financial credentials. While Prime Day offers incredible savings, it is crucial for shoppers to remain vigilant, exercise caution while clicking on links or providing sensitive information, and ensure they are navigating legitimate platforms.”
During the shopping frenzy, beware of dodgy texts and emails masquerading as Amazon.
Phishing attacks get more prevalent around sales events, with fraudsters blitzing inboxes and social media with harmful attachments or links leading to phoney websitesposing of reputable brands like Amazon.
Fradsters will try to filch sensitive details like login credentials or bank information.
Check Point’s advice:
- Watch for typos or odd domain endings (.co instead of .com). These doppelganger domains are traps set to snare your data.
- Make sure any shopping site’s URL begins with “https://” and flaunts a lock symbol for a secure link.
- When online shopping, keep personal info to a minimum no retailer needs to know your birthday or social security number.
- Phishing attacks often use urgent language to trick you into clicking links or downloading attachments. Always verify the source.
- If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Trust your instincts and avoid suspicious offers.
- Prefer credit cards over debit cards for online shopping as they offer better protection and less liability if stolen.