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ACU’s new main branch, located at 401 University Boulevard East in Tuscaloosa, will open to serve members on Monday, May 20, 2024. 

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Paypal and Amazon Text Scams

01/23/24 |

PayPal and Amazon scams are becoming increasingly common. Scammers are using different strategies to convince users to send them their money and personal information or give them access to their accounts. Read this article to learn how you can prevent getting scammed.  

Fake PayPal “Fraud Alert" Text Messages

Smishing scams are when scammers contact you impersonating PayPal to attempt to get you to share payment or personal information. Smishing targets people over a text message.

How to spot the scam:

  • Unsolicited text messages claiming to be from PayPal
  • Requests for information to help resolve a problem or issue a refund
  • Suspicious link or phone number

How to prevent getting scammed:

  • Verify the information in the text message yourself. Log in to your PayPal account directly to update your password and check past transactions.
  • Never follow links or call numbers that are provided via text. Instead, always contact PayPal directly

Amazon Gift Card Scams

In an Amazon gift card scam, scammers will reach out to you via an Amazon phishing email, text, or phone call. The scammer will inform you that something is wrong with your account and that you must purchase Amazon gift cards. The scammer will ask you to share the gift card information to resolve the issue.

How to spot the scam:

  • Urgent emails, phone calls, or text messages from someone posing as Amazon
  • False information about an issue with your account
  • Requests for Amazon gift card information

How to prevent getting scammed:

  • Don't use gift cards to pay back companies 
  • Avoid installing remote access software on your computer to refund money 
  • Call Amazon directly 

What to do if you gave a gift card to a scammer:

  • Keep a copy of the Amazon gift card or your store receipt
  • Report the gift card scam to the gift card company right away
  • Some companies may give your money back. It’s worth asking.

Be proactive and learn how to identify scams. For more tips on how to prevent fraud, visit our Fraud Resources page.

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