AI scammers targeting elderly Americans with fraud schemes
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to enhance fraud schemes aimed at older Americans, who possess a large portion of the nation’s wealth. Matt Sanner, the founder of ScamSkeptic, discussed with ‘America’s Newsroom’ how scammers are leveraging AI to imitate voices and create deepfakes. He also shared important tips for families on how to recognize these scams and shield their loved ones from them.
We’ve seen numerous scams impersonating Amazon, many of which are so convincing that they could give almost anyone pause. For example, a fake Amazon email circulated earlier this summer, claiming there was unusual activity on an account and urging recipients to “Sign In to Verify.” The email even suggested that users might need to upload a document. Additionally, we’ve issued warnings about fraudulent texts that claim to offer high-paying remote job opportunities with Amazon.
The stories may vary, but scammers frequently return to Amazon, knowing that it’s widely used. A message about a delivery issue or an account alert can feel credible, especially if you’re already waiting for a package.
In response, Amazon is introducing a new feature that allows customers to verify whether a message they received was genuinely sent by Amazon. Reports suggest that about 360,000 customers contact Amazon’s customer service annually to verify the authenticity of messages. The new tool will be available through Alexa for Shopping.
Amazon Alexa scam verification checks suspicious messages
Amazon has announced that U.S. customers can now ask Alexa for Shopping if an email, text, or phone call they received is genuinely from Amazon. Alexa for Shopping, which serves as Amazon’s AI shopping assistant, can assist customers by providing information about products and managing shopping inquiries. Users aren’t required to have a Prime membership to access this feature.
Now, if you receive a questionable message, rather than judging only on its appearance, you can describe it to Alexa for Shopping. For instance, you might ask, “Did Amazon send me a text about a delivery issue yesterday?” or inquire about a Prime membership email. Alexa will cross-check the details against Amazon’s communication records.
How Alexa for Shopping checks an Amazon message
When inquiring about a suspicious message, you’ll need to provide details on its origin and timing. You can also inform Alexa what the message entailed. Amazon’s technology evaluates the sender’s information and the content of the message, considering its timing and format as well.
By doing this, Amazon can differentiate between actual communications and scams better than basic tools that only scan for misleading phrases or dangerous links. The tool will only confirm a message’s legitimacy when it has full confidence in its assessment.
What Alexa tells you after checking a message
The response from Alexa will depend on Amazon’s findings. If it can verify the message against its own records, Alexa will inform you that it originated from Amazon and may provide additional details about it and advice on account security. Conversely, if no match is found, Alexa will let you know that the communication doesn’t seem to correspond with an official Amazon message.
In that case, Amazon might recommend checking your orders directly via the app or contacting customer service through official channels. It’s also best to refrain from clicking on any links from dubious messages.
There’s also the possibility that Alexa may indicate uncertainty in verifying the message. If that happens, Amazon will suggest further steps, which may include submitting additional information or utilizing another verification option.
You can also forward a suspicious Amazon email
Alexa for Shopping isn’t the only way to verify suspicious communications. Earlier this year, Amazon introduced the email address [email protected], which allows anyone to forward potentially fraudulent messages. A response indicating whether Amazon sent the message will be provided, and you don’t even need an Amazon account to use this service.
Additionally, Amazon has a communication verification form available through its customer service pages, so whether it’s via Alexa or another method, there are options to validate any uncertainties before acting.
Amazon reports suspicious communications you submit
Another intriguing aspect of the new feature is that when you request verification through Alexa for Shopping, Amazon automatically sends that report to its customer protection team. This helps Amazon track potentially dangerous scam campaigns and imposters. So, the suspicious message on your phone may contribute to identifying broader fraud issues affecting other customers.
Why fake Amazon messages keep fooling people
Scammers succeed because their tactics often begin with completely believable scenarios. For example, if you recently ordered something, a message about a delivery issue could seem plausible. If you have a Prime membership, an account alert suddenly becomes more pressing. They typically use urgency as a tactic.
A deceptive email may indicate that your account is locked or that an expensive order was made using your account. This type of urgency encourages quick action, often without time for second thoughts.
We’ve seen these tactics play out with various fraud attempts that utilize recognizable Amazon branding, making the emails appear authentic. The best response is to avoid clicking any links included and directly access Amazon to check your account for any issues.
How to protect yourself from fake Amazon messages
The new verification feature helps check suspicious communications, but since scammers evolve, here are some helpful tips to enhance your security.
1) Watch for false urgency
Be cautious of messages that pressure you to act quickly or threaten consequences for inaction. Scammers thrive on urgency since a moment’s haste can overlook caution. If a message threatens to suspend your account or demands immediate action regarding a package, bypass all links and check your account through the official Amazon channel instead.
2) Never pay with gift cards
Beware of anyone purporting to be from Amazon who requests payment via gift cards. Amazon has confirmed it will never ask for gift cards as a resolution for account issues. If someone makes that request, cease all communication with them.
3) Do not share passwords or verification codes
Be especially wary of anyone asking for sensitive information like your password over the phone. Amazon will never request these details. If someone claiming to represent Amazon asks for such information, terminate the call immediately and reach out to official Amazon support.
4) Do not trust caller ID alone
Phone scams require careful attention since the displayed number can be misleading. Scammers can spoof caller IDs to mimic well-known companies. Just because the name “Amazon” appears, it doesn’t guarantee authenticity. If you receive unexpected calls regarding refunds or account inquiries, do not provide any info. Hang up and verify your account status independently.
5) Use strong antivirus protection against malicious links
Phishing messages can redirect you to harmful websites. It’s advisable to maintain reliable antivirus software on your devices to warn you about phishing risks or dubious links. However, no software can replace common sense, so avoid clicking on links from unexpected messages.
6) Check scam reports for another clue
Amazon recommends checking the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker for insights into fraudulent communications by visiting bbb.org/scamtracker. This resource allows searches using email or phone details. However, don’t take a lack of reports as a sign of safety, as some scams may emerge before anyone reports them. When in doubt, validating through Amazon directly is best.
Kurt’s key takeaways
We’ve spent considerable time highlighting convincing Amazon scams because they persistently appear in inboxes and on phones. Scammers understand that Amazon offers familiarity, making urgent messages easier to swallow. That’s why I believe this verification tool has significant value. Instead of getting lost in fleeting doubts about an email’s legitimacy, you can directly ask Amazon for confirmation. But regardless, I would advocate a principle above all: go directly through Amazon. Check your account without engaging with any suspicious messages. If you spot anything odd, remember to use Amazon’s verification tools before responding. The more methods we employ to thwart the urgency that scammers rely on, the harder it becomes for their schemes to succeed.
Do you feel comfortable trusting Alexa with verifying Amazon communications, or would you prefer to explore other verification methods first? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share with us your feedback at Cyberguy.com.
