CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. (WKBW) — Cheektowaga police have issued a warning to residents regarding an Amazon scam.
Police say reports have come in of Amazon Prime members falling prey to scammers who call and claim to be "Amazon Prime Security," and say their Amazon account has been compromised with fraudulent purchases.
The scammers then say for them to remedy the issue the person needs to purchase various store gift cards and provide them with the account numbers.
In a Facebook post Cheektowaga police said:
"We take these reports from numerous victims from all ages every week!! Please do not fall for these. Here are some tips on how to protect yourself...
1. TIME IS ON YOUR SIDE - Scammers will try to keep you on the line and pressure you that you need to act fast or there will be consequences. DO NOT RUSH and send money right away.
2. HANG UP - Hang up the phone and call that company directly with a number you look up, not one provided by them.
3. NO GIFT CARD PAYMENTS - No reputable business askes for payments in gift cards.
4. DO NOT SHARE PERSONAL INFORMATION - Do not share your information with someone that contacted you unsolicited whether its over the phone, via email or social media. No birthdate, social security numbers etc.
5. DO NOT CLICK LINKS PROVIDED BY UNSOLICITED EMAILS - Unreliable links will download malware on your computer, smart phone or tablet. Be cautious even with an email that looks familiar.
With Black Friday upon us and the holiday season approaching we have to be extra vigilant on online scams."
You can find more information on how to keep yourself safe while shopping online this holiday season here.
