Scammers often impersonate well-known companies like Amazon or Apple, sending emails that claim you’re eligible for a refund due to a billing error or transaction issue. These emails are designed to look legitimate, featuring company logos, official-sounding language, and links that appear to lead to the business’s website. Once you click the link, you’re redirected to a fraudulent site designed to mimic the real one. There, you’ll be prompted to provide sensitive information, such as your name, address, Social Security number, credit card details, or account login credentials. Scammers then use this information to commit identity theft, make unauthorized purchases, or access your accounts.

These scams are particularly deceptive because the fraudulent websites and email messages are highly convincing. The scammers may include slight variations in the website URL, making them hard to distinguish from legitimate sites. Often, the emails will create a sense of urgency, warning you that you must act quickly to claim your refund or avoid a penalty. To protect yourself, never click on links in unsolicited emails claiming to offer refunds. Instead, go directly to the official website by typing the company’s URL into your browser or contact their verified customer support. Companies like Amazon or Apple will never request sensitive information via email, so staying cautious can help you avoid becoming a victim.