Got a text about an Amazon refund? Don’t click—it’s a scam
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It’s easy to trust what looks familiar, especially when it comes from companies you interact with regularly and rely on for everyday needs.
A well-timed message or text claiming to be from “Amazon” and offering what seems like a routine refund can appear completely legitimate—at least at first glance.
But as more and more consumers are discovering, those seemingly harmless alerts often turn out to be anything but trustworthy.
In reality, they’re part of a broader and increasingly sophisticated phishing scam designed to quietly extract your personal information before you even realize what’s happened.
According to a July 24 advisory from the Federal Trade Commission, the scam starts with a text claiming to be from Amazon, stating an item you recently bought failed a quality inspection or was recalled.
The message then offers a refund and says you don’t need to return the item—just click a link. But the FTC makes it clear: “There’s no refund.” That link is a phishing tool meant to harvest your personal and financial data.
The texts often look polished, with Amazon-style branding and formatting that closely resembles official communication.
That’s what makes them so convincing, especially when people are actually waiting for deliveries. The scam relies on timing and familiarity, not technical tricks. Victims may not realize anything is wrong until it’s too late.
To avoid getting caught, the FTC urges users to ignore unexpected messages that include links, even if they appear trustworthy.
Instead of responding, check your Amazon account through the app or website to confirm whether there’s any issue with your order.
Forward suspicious messages to 7726 (SPAM) or use the “report junk” option built into your phone. Once reported, delete the message immediately to prevent accidental clicks later.
If you’ve already interacted with one of these scam texts, immediate action is essential to limit the damage. Begin by contacting your bank or credit card provider to freeze affected accounts and flag suspicious activity.
Change your passwords for any services that might be compromised. If your Social Security number was shared, visit IdentityTheft.gov to learn what steps to take next.
Many people are unaware that Amazon never initiates refunds or recalls via unsolicited text messages.
The company advises customers to verify any suspicious messages by logging into their official Amazon account directly.
Scammers are counting on quick reactions and minimal scrutiny to pull this off. A moment of caution can prevent major financial and personal data loss.
Read next:
Have you received one of these fake Amazon refund texts recently, or do you know someone who has? Tell us about your experience in the comments below to help other readers spot the red flags. Sometimes the fastest way to stop a scam is to talk about it openly. Your input could help someone avoid becoming the next victim.
A well-timed message or text claiming to be from “Amazon” and offering what seems like a routine refund can appear completely legitimate—at least at first glance.
But as more and more consumers are discovering, those seemingly harmless alerts often turn out to be anything but trustworthy.
In reality, they’re part of a broader and increasingly sophisticated phishing scam designed to quietly extract your personal information before you even realize what’s happened.
According to a July 24 advisory from the Federal Trade Commission, the scam starts with a text claiming to be from Amazon, stating an item you recently bought failed a quality inspection or was recalled.
The message then offers a refund and says you don’t need to return the item—just click a link. But the FTC makes it clear: “There’s no refund.” That link is a phishing tool meant to harvest your personal and financial data.
The texts often look polished, with Amazon-style branding and formatting that closely resembles official communication.
Fake Amazon refund texts are circulating—here’s what to know. Image source: Marjan Grabowski / Unsplash
That’s what makes them so convincing, especially when people are actually waiting for deliveries. The scam relies on timing and familiarity, not technical tricks. Victims may not realize anything is wrong until it’s too late.
To avoid getting caught, the FTC urges users to ignore unexpected messages that include links, even if they appear trustworthy.
Instead of responding, check your Amazon account through the app or website to confirm whether there’s any issue with your order.
Forward suspicious messages to 7726 (SPAM) or use the “report junk” option built into your phone. Once reported, delete the message immediately to prevent accidental clicks later.
If you’ve already interacted with one of these scam texts, immediate action is essential to limit the damage. Begin by contacting your bank or credit card provider to freeze affected accounts and flag suspicious activity.
Change your passwords for any services that might be compromised. If your Social Security number was shared, visit IdentityTheft.gov to learn what steps to take next.
Many people are unaware that Amazon never initiates refunds or recalls via unsolicited text messages.
The company advises customers to verify any suspicious messages by logging into their official Amazon account directly.
Scammers are counting on quick reactions and minimal scrutiny to pull this off. A moment of caution can prevent major financial and personal data loss.
Read next:
- Amazon warns Prime customers of rise in scam attempts: What to know and how to stay safe
- New voice scams are targeting you—here’s how to outsmart them before it’s too late!
