Amazon Prime scams are nothing new, but they’ve exploded in recent years.
From fake emails claiming your membership payment failed to phone calls demanding you “press 1” to avoid losing your subscription, criminals are getting more creative, and in some cases, using AI to make their messages look almost identical to the real thing.
In fact, Amazon has warned that tens of thousands of phishing sites and fake phone numbers are being taken down every year.
So if you’ve noticed more scam attempts recently, you’re not alone.
Here’s how to recognise the signs, avoid the traps, and keep your Amazon account secure.
Why Amazon Prime is such a popular scam target
- Over 200 million Prime members worldwide means a huge pool of potential victims.
- Most households in the UK use Amazon, making the brand a trusted name, perfect for scammers to impersonate.
- Regular subscription renewals and payments make it easy to send fake “payment failed” or “renew now” messages.
Common Amazon Prime scams to watch for
1. Fake email scams
These are the most common, often warning that:
- Your payment has failed
- Your account will be locked unless you act now
- You’ve ordered something expensive you didn’t recognise
- Your Prime membership fee is about to rise
Red flags: poor grammar, odd phrasing, suspicious links, or sender addresses that don’t match @amazon.co.uk or @amazon.com.
2. Phone call scams
You receive a robocall saying there’s a problem with your Prime account and asking you to “press 1” to speak to an “advisor.”
The caller then demands a payment (often £39.99) and tries to steal your bank details.
Reality: Amazon UK doesn’t cold call customers and will never ask for bank details or account passwords over the phone.
3. SMS / WhatsApp scams
Messages with links to fake login pages such as prime-update-uk.com or account-check-amazon.net.
Tip: If the link doesn’t end in amazon.co.uk or amazon.com, it’s a scam.
4. “Brushing” scams
You receive a random item you didn’t order, then the seller asks for a positive review in return for keeping it.
While less dangerous, it’s against Amazon’s rules and manipulates other shoppers.
New red flags in 2025
- Urgent or threatening language: “Act within 24 hours or your account will be suspended.”
- AI-crafted emails: Fewer spelling errors, but still odd sender addresses or slightly wrong branding.
- Fake cancellation emails: Messages with “Cancel Prime” links leading to fraudulent login pages.
- Payment method update requests: Asking you to re-enter card details via an external link.
Amazon’s official advice and protections
Amazon recommends:
- Check the Message Centre: Any genuine communication from Amazon will also appear in your account’s Message Centre.
- Never share passwords or card details: Amazon won’t ask for these via email, phone, or text.
- Report scams: Forward emails to
[email protected]. - Two-step verification: Enable 2FA to protect your account, so even if credentials are stolen, scammers can’t log in.
See my full guide to checking your credit report if you’re worried your details may have been misused.
Safety checklist: how to protect yourself
- Ignore and delete suspicious messages, don’t click links.
- Check your account directly by logging into Amazon via the app or your browser.
- Enable two-factor authentication on your Amazon account.
- Use a unique, strong password (and consider a password manager).
- Block and report scam numbers to your network provider.
- Monitor bank statements for unusual transactions.
- Report financial losses to your bank and Action Fraud.
What to do if you’ve been targeted
- Change your Amazon password immediately.
- Enable or review two-factor authentication.
- Check your account for unauthorised orders, new addresses, or payment methods.
- Contact your bank if you shared financial details.
- Report the scam to Amazon and Action Fraud.
Final thoughts
Amazon Prime scams are getting more sophisticated, but with a cautious eye and the right tools, you can stay safe.
Always verify messages via the official Amazon site or app, use two-factor authentication and report anything suspicious.
A little scepticism goes a long way when it comes to keeping your money and data safe!
Amazon Prime scam FAQs
How can I tell if an Amazon Prime email is real?
Check the sender address, genuine emails come from @amazon.co.uk or @amazon.com. Log into your Amazon account and check the Message Centre; if the message isn’t there, it’s not real. Avoid clicking on links in emails and go directly to Amazon.co.uk to confirm your subscription status.
Does Amazon ever call customers about Prime issues?
Rarely, and never to ask for payment details or passwords. Any call asking for money, bank details, or gift cards is a scam. Hang up and contact Amazon via the official website.
I received a text saying my Prime membership payment failed. What should I do?
Don’t click the link. Delete the text and log into your Amazon account directly. Any genuine issue with your membership will be visible there.
What is the Amazon brushing scam?
Sellers send free, unsolicited items and then ask for positive reviews. It’s a way to game the ratings system. It doesn’t directly cost you money, but it’s against Amazon’s rules and can trick other shoppers into buying low-quality goods.
What should I do if I’ve clicked on a scam link?
Change your Amazon password immediately, enable two-factor authentication, and check for suspicious activity. If you entered payment details, contact your bank to block or replace your card. Report the scam to Amazon and Action Fraud.
