New Yorkers Are Being Hit with Fake Amazon Recall Texts

If you live in New York and shop on Amazon even semi regularly, there is a good chance you have already seen one of these alarming text messages. It usually starts with something like, “Your recent Amazon purchase has been flagged for safety issues. Stop using it immediately and click here for your refund.” Sounds serious, right? That is exactly what the scammers want. They are hoping fear will make you react before you think.

Scammers Use Fake Refund Links to Steal Your Information

These messages pretend to be official warnings about recalled or unsafe products. Some even claim you are eligible for an instant refund and do not need to return the item. All you have to do is click the link. Here is the truth. That link does not go to Amazon. It goes to a fake site designed to steal your Amazon login, your personal information, or even your payment details. Sometimes the link can install malware onto your device without you realizing it.

Why This Scam Is Spreading Quickly in New York

It's easy to click something without double checking when it looks urgent. Scammers know that and they are blasting these messages across the state hoping someone is too distracted to think twice. They want you to panic. You do not need to.

How to Tell a Real Amazon Recall from a Fake One

There are a few giveaways that the message is not real. Real Amazon recalls will appear in your official Amazon Message Center or under the Recalls and Product Safety Alerts section when you log in. A text that tells you to click a random link is not the real process. If the message uses wording like “you don’t need to return the item, just click here for your refund,” that is another clear sign it is fake. Amazon almost never issues refunds without confirming ownership of an item. And if the link looks strange or does not include amazon.com in the main part of the address, stop right there.

What to Do If You Receive One of These Texts

Do not click the link. Do not reply. Instead, open the Amazon app or go directly to Amazon.com and check your orders. If there is a real recall, you will see it listed there. You can also report the message by forwarding it to Amazon at reportascam@amazon.com or sending it to 7726, which flags it as spam with most phone carriers. If you already clicked the link or gave any information, change your Amazon password immediately and keep a close eye on your bank statements.

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Stay Calm and Trust Your Instincts

Scammers are trying a new approach by pretending to care about your safety. Do not give them the satisfaction. Take a breath, verify through your Amazon account directly and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.