Beware of Fake Amazon Emails on Black Friday

November 10, 2026, 4:41 pm | Read time: 2 minutes

Around Black Friday, cybercriminals increasingly target Amazon customers. Fake emails and texts aim to steal login credentials and payment information. Here’s how to protect yourself.

Fraudsters Pressure Amazon Users

Black Friday is not only interesting for bargain hunters. Fraudsters also exploit the hectic discount season to profit from fake Amazon messages. Emails allegedly from customer service frequently appear in inboxes, mentioning suspicious account activity, order issues, or urgent security measures.

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The goal is almost always the same: Recipients are urged to quickly click a link or call a supposed hotline. Links often lead to deceptively real copies of Amazon login pages. Entering a username, password, or payment information there sends it directly to criminals. In the worst case, perpetrators can shop at others’ expense or cause further financial damage.

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How to Verify Genuine Amazon Messages

If you have doubts about an email, never use the link it contains. Instead, check the message directly through your Amazon account. In the so-called Message Center, Amazon stores communications sent to its customers. If the suspicious email doesn’t appear there, it’s likely a fraud attempt.

Be wary of SMS and messenger messages as well. In so-called smishing, perpetrators pose as Amazon via text message. Warning signs include unknown or foreign phone numbers, unexpected order notifications, and oddly written web addresses. Be especially cautious if supposed Amazon employees request passwords, credit card details, or bank information, or ask for payments outside the store.

How to Protect Your Amazon Account

As a rule, do not open links or attachments in unexpected Amazon messages. It’s safer to visit Amazon directly in your browser or open the official app. If nothing about the alleged issue appears after logging in, the message is most likely fake. Additional protection is provided by two-factor authentication.

If you’ve already shared data, act immediately. Change your Amazon password and, if payment information was shared, contact your bank or credit card provider. Filing a police report can also be wise. Speed is crucial: The faster compromised credentials or cards are blocked, the lower the risk of further damage.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TECHBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@techbook.de.