Can you get scammed on Amazon?
Well, there are chances when a fraudster finds a loophole in the system and impersonates themselves as an Amazon partner.
Recently, a shopper fell victim to a fake Amazon order scam, where he received a bogus message about a ₹62,000 TV order, followed by a call from someone pretending to be Amazon support.
The fraudster tried to trick them into sharing an OTP to “cancel” the order — a trap many others unfortunately fall for.
Latest Case Study: Brick Instead of Phone
Scams around Amazon aren’t just limited to fake calls or phishing links. Sometimes, even genuine shoppers using the platform can have shocking experiences.
Recently, a resident of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, reported a similar case. Here’s what exactly happened:
- He placed an order on Amazon
- He paid ₹9,134 for a mobile handset.
- After a message saying the product would arrive in a week, he got a parcel; when he opened it, he found a brick inside instead of the mobile phone.
- The courier person reportedly said their duty was only to deliver the parcel, not inspect what was inside.
He complained to the Harsul police station under IPC sections related to cheating.
This case highlights a worrying truth: fraudsters sometimes find loopholes even within trusted platforms.
Why Amazon Scams Work So Well
Scammers succeed because they exploit the trust and familiarity associated with Amazon. Even experienced shoppers can be deceived when urgency and fear are combined with a credible brand name.
- Trusted Brand: Amazon’s reputation makes messages, calls, and emails appear genuine.
- Urgency and Pressure: Scammers create a sense of immediate action, claiming orders need confirmation or refunds must be processed quickly.
- Fear of Financial Loss: Many act impulsively when they believe money is at stake, sharing OTPs, card details, or clicking on unsafe links.
Real Incidents of Scams in the Name of Amazon in India
- A businessman in Mumbai lost ₹1.5 lakh after downloading a “refund app” that was actually a scam.
- In Delhi, a woman transferred ₹40,000 believing she was speaking to Amazon support.
- In Bangalore, multiple buyers were duped with fake Apple AirPods listed at half the market price.
These examples highlight how fraudsters misuse Amazon’s credibility to exploit shoppers.
Common Scams That Exploit Amazon’s Name
Fraudsters use Amazon’s trusted brand to trick unsuspecting shoppers. The most common scams include:
1. Fake Order Confirmations
Shoppers receive an email or message confirming an expensive order they never placed. Follow-up calls offer to “cancel” the order but demand OTPs, bank details, or app downloads.
2. Phishing Websites
Links sent via email or SMS mimic Amazon’s login page. Entering credentials on these fake sites gives scammers full access to accounts.
3. Fake Customer Care Numbers
Many websites and search results list fraudulent Amazon support numbers. Calling these numbers connects shoppers to fraudsters who request sensitive information under the guise of assisting.
4. Counterfeit Sellers
Scammers list fake products or unrealistic discounts to lure buyers. Payments are made, but products are either counterfeit or never delivered.
Understanding these scam types helps shoppers recognize warning signs and take preventive measures.
How to Protect Yourself from Amazon Scams?
To avoid falling victim to scams that misuse Amazon’s name, follow these essential precautions:
- Verify orders only through the official Amazon app or website. If an order does not appear in your account, it is not genuine.
- Avoid clicking on links from unsolicited emails, SMS, or messages. Always navigate directly to Amazon’s official site.
- Use only in-app support for customer care. Do not rely on phone numbers found through search engines or third-party websites.
- Never share OTPs, UPI PINs, passwords, or card details. Amazon will never request this information over email, SMS, or phone.
- Be cautious with deals that seem too good to be true. Extremely low prices or unrealistic discounts often indicate fraudulent sellers.
Following these precautions ensures that online shopping remains safe and secure, while minimizing the risk of being tricked by fraudsters.
How to Report Amazon Scams?
If a suspicious message, call, or email is received, immediate reporting can prevent further fraud. Follow these steps:
- Do not respond or click on any links. Avoid sharing OTPs, passwords, or payment information.
- Report directly to Amazon: Forward phishing emails to reportphishing@amazon.com or use the official “Report Suspicious Activity” option in the Amazon app.
- Contact the bank or payment provider: If any financial information was shared, block the card or UPI account immediately.
- File a complaint in Cyber Crime: Visit the cyber crime portal and submit a report under “Other Cyber Crimes.”
- Lodge a police complaint (FIR) if financial loss occurs: Include screenshots of messages, emails, transaction records, and any fake URLs.
Prompt reporting ensures that authorities can investigate and may help prevent others from falling victim to similar scams
Need Help?
Register with us, and we will guide you with the process to register complaints for such fraud and further assist in escalation, if required.
Conclusion
Can scams happen on Amazon? Not directly on the platform. Amazon’s systems are secure.
The real danger lies in fraudsters who use Amazon’s name to deceive shoppers. If an order or message cannot be verified inside the official Amazon account, it is fake. Awareness, verification, and caution are the best defenses against these scams.
