If you’re a senior who relies on Amazon deliveries — and most of us do — here’s a holiday warning worth taking seriously. Scammers are now tailoring impersonation schemes specifically to older adults, knowing many of us answer unknown calls, trust messages that look “official,” and want delivery issues solved quickly.
Amazon reports that two out of every three scams now pretend to involve an order problem or account issue — the exact type of message that pushes many seniors to take action fast. In the last year alone, Amazon had to shut down more than 55,000 fake websites and 12,000 scam phone numbers pretending to be the company.
Now, with the holiday rush underway, Amazon and the FBI are urging seniors to stay alert for phony delivery texts, account warnings, and fraudulent support calls designed to take over your account.
What’s Happening
Amazon says criminals are aggressively trying to trick consumers into revealing:
- Personal details
- Banking information
- Login credentials for Amazon accounts
Most scams start with fake delivery notices, “account problem” messages, or tech-support calls you didn’t ask for. Many appear via text, email, or social media ads offering “amazing Amazon deals.”
The common tactic: creating urgency so you react fast.
The FBI says it has received 5,100 complaints about account takeovers just since January.
Red Flags Seniors Should Watch For
Here are the scams popping up most often:
1. Fake delivery messages
“Your package can’t be delivered” — with a link.
Don’t tap. Don’t click. Go directly to your Amazon app.
2. Account problem alerts
“Your account will be closed” or “payment failed.”
These are almost always fake.
3. Unsolicited tech-support calls
Amazon will not call you to “fix” your device or account.
4. Social media ads offering Amazon deals
Many of these are fake shops designed to steal Amazon login info.
5. Gift-card demands
Still one of the top scams.
If anyone says “buy an Amazon gift card to fix the issue,” it’s a criminal.
What Smart Seniors Should Do Right Now
To stay safe this holiday season:
1. Communicate ONLY through the Amazon app or website
Never respond to texts, emails, or messages asking for account details. If you’re unsure about a notification, open the Amazon app and check your orders there.
2. Turn on Two-Step Verification
This adds a code to your login so hackers can’t access your account even if they know your password.
3. Consider using a passkey to sign in
Amazon now supports passkeys, which are harder for criminals to crack than traditional passwords.
4. Monitor your bank and credit-card accounts weekly
The FBI recommends checking for small, unusual transactions — thieves often “test” cards before making big purchases.
5. Use strong, unique passwords
Never reuse the same password for Amazon and email. If thieves get one, they get them all.
Bottom Line
If you didn’t expect the message, don’t trust it.
If someone wants personal or financial info, hang up.
And when in doubt, open your Amazon app — not the link someone sent you.
Sources: New York Post, Forbes
