Consumer tip: Beware of Amazon scams

Criminals often impersonate large companies, such as Amazon, to steal millions from customers. In 2023, the Federal Trade Commission received 44,000 reports of impersonation scams involving Amazon alone, which amounted to about $19 million in losses. Impersonators of Amazon and other such purchasing sites may send victims a message citing a “suspicious purchase.”

If you receive such a message, call Amazon — or other companies — directly or contact them through their verified website and ask about the message. You also can check your order history on their official site or app. Never click on their links or provide personal information without clear authentication from the site.

If you encounter a suspicious message, take your time to assess the situation and have a family member or friend look over it. Report scams to Amazon at amazon.com/reportascam or any such ruses to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

More information at marincountyda.org or 415-473-6495