Retiree, 70, lost over $2,000 in an Amazon impersonation scam. How fraudsters got him ‘hook, line and sinker’

The spokesperson warned that scammers may contact consumers by email, phone or text and demand payment for supposed items or services. They may also create a false sense of urgency to pressure victims into acting before they have time to question the request.

“We encourage consumers to report suspected scams to us so that we can protect their accounts and refer bad actors to law enforcement to help keep them safe,” the spokesperson said.

To reduce your risk:

• If you get a suspicious call, hang up and contact the company directly through its official website or app.
• Never download unfamiliar software or grant someone remote access to your computer or phone.
• Avoid clicking unexpected links in emails or text messages, and do not scan unsolicited QR codes.
• Be suspicious of unexpected requests for money or personal information, especially when someone pressures you to act immediately.

Older adults can be especially vulnerable to impersonation scams. Social isolation can make it harder to recognize a scam or quickly check a suspicious request with someone they trust, according to Psychology Today.

Consider discussing common scam tactics with older loved ones, particularly those who live alone. Encourage them to contact a trusted friend or family member before responding to unexpected requests for money, passwords or other personal information.

If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam, contact your bank or credit card provider immediately to secure your accounts and change the passwords for any affected accounts. You can also report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission through ReportFraud.ftc.gov or, if it happened online, to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).