SCAM WARNING
Warning over Netflix scam that lets hackers steal your money
A government agency in the US is warning Netflix users not to fall for fake emails asking them to update their payment details
NETFLIX users are once again being warned not to fall for fake emails asking customers to update their payment details.
The emails claim to be from the streaming service but are actually from scammers trying to steal your money.
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The convincing message reads: "We're having some trouble with your current billing information.
"We'll try again, but in the meantime you may want to update your payment details."
At the end of the email, there is a red button that tells you to "Update Account now".
But if you click on it and follow the link, you will be taken to a fake website that is actually run by scammers who may use the information you enter to hack your bank account.
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The Federal Trade Commission, a government agency in the US, has now issued about the Netflix "phishing scam" and urged consumers not "take the bait".
"Scammers use your information to steal your money, your identity, or both," it explained.
"They also use phishing emails to get access to your computer or network.
"If you click on a link, they can install ransomware or other programs that can lock you out of your data."
How to spot a fake email
IF you've received an email or text message claiming to be from your bank or a retailer, then these are the things you should look out for:
- Your bank or the retailer will always address a customer by name
- They will never ask a customer for their PIN, password or full memorable information
- The bank would never ask a customer to click on a link in an email or text message that takes you to a page which asks you for your username, password or any other information
- They would never ask a customer to email or text them PINs, card details or passwords
- Customers should not click on any links in emails if they have concerns
- Customers are encouraged to call their bank if they have any concerns about an email they have received
But it's not the first time warnings have been issued over Netflix scams - in September this year Action Fraud did the same over a similar scam.
And earlier in 2017, Netflix users were also hit with a sophisticated ‘phishing’ scam inviting them to type in bank details on a fake login page.
More on scams and frauds
Scammers are getting more creative in their ways to trick consumers into sharing personal data, and some are now targeting drivers with poor credit scores with fake adverts for car leases on social media.
Others are also tricking people into handing over their bank and card details with fake TV licensing emails.
Meanwhile, shoppers have been warned to stay alert to gift card fraud which conned Brits out of £6.5million over the past three years.
Video reveals the iPhone 'fingerprint scam' that can hit you with a £100 bill
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