Even movie buffs aren’t immune to online stings and should be aware of the rise of phishing scams that impersonate streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime.
In the case of Netflix, the scammers will send an email or text (SMS) asking subscribers to update payment details using a convincing-looking email banner with genuine-looking Netflix branding to add a “sense of authenticity” to the sting.
“Your membership has been cancelled as payment failed. Please update your card details to keep your membership,” it adds, followed by a link to a bogus Netflix login page.
Other messages might request your Netflix account email address, phone number, password, or payment method. Whatever the message, it is improbable that it was sent by the subscription movie streaming service.
The scam’s goal is to trick the user into giving up personal financial details, such as credit card numbers, which the criminals can use for other criminal activities and unlawful purchases.
The Netflix scam is yet another phishing scam and the streaming service reminds its subscribers to be wary of suspicious emails or texts and to keep account details safe.
Watch out for bad actors.
Another Netflix phishing scam involves the circulation of emails that involve online surveys. Promising you an exclusive reward, the bad actors draw unsuspecting subscribers into clicking on the embedded button to take an online survey.
Of course, there is no gift — the scammers’ objective is to steal your personal information. They’ll record everything you enter on these fake pages and use these details to commit cybercrimes such as hacking into your bank account to withdraw money or steal your identity.
Remember that a streaming service will never ask subscribers to enter their personal information in a text or email. This includes:
- credit or debit card numbers;
- bank account details; and,
- Netflix passwords.
Nor will a streaming service ever request payment through a third party vendor or website.
What should I do if I receive a suspicious email or text?
Scammers can’t get information from you unless you give it to them. So, if the text or email links to a URL you don’t recognise, don’t tap or click it – and certainly don’t respond to the message. If you click the link, do not enter any information on the opened website.
If you receive the message via email, using a computer browser, hover over any links before clicking on them to see the URL. Please make sure the links go where you expect them to – and they don’t avoid clicking on them.
If you accidentally click a link, change your Netflix password immediately to a new one that is strong and unique to the streaming service.
Also, contact your financial institution immediately if you entered any payment information, as it may be compromised.
Play it safe.
If you want to know more about the Netflix scam or other online cons, talk to the team at Defence Bank. Call our Contact Centre on 1800 033 139 or visit your local branch to find out more.
Important note: This information is of a general nature and is not intended to be relied on by you as advice in any particular matter. You should contact us at Defence Bank to discuss how this information may apply to your circumstances.
