Gmail: Billions warned of scam that steals payment details, look out for these crucial signs

Cyber security experts are advising users to search for these three key words in their email inbox to check if they’re being scammed. The warning is applicable to users of all email accounts, including Gmail,regardless of whether you use Android or iPhone.

Security company Trend Micro say that the three words to be wary of are UPS, Amazon and Netflix. These big names are often used as a front for scam emails that are targeting vulnerable users into giving away personal information.

Netflix, Amazon and UPS phishing emails

Online scammers frequently use reputable brand and company names to fool people into thinking it is a legitimate and trustworthy email. There are many new scams doing the rounds at the moment and Trend Micro have listed three of the most common right now.

The current Netflix scam consists of a phishing email that will mention ‘unusual account activity’. The email looks just like a genuine Netflix communication but in fact will take you to a fake website which will harvest your personal information for nefarious means.

The latest scams that are using Amazon as a subterfuge involve phishing emails and texts. The first one purports to be from Amazon Prime and states that you are required to update your payment information only for cyber criminals to steal these details.

The other Amazon one arrives by SMS or email and claims that your account has been locked for security reasons. Again, any links will take you to a fake website where your information is stolen.

The UPS scam is also done by SMS and asks you to fill in a form about a parcel that is meant for you. Of course, there is no parcel and your information will be stolen, as per The Sun.

Read more:

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How to avoid a phishing scam

There is no single fool-proof way of avoiding some of these scams but there are preventative measures you can take. Here are ten tips on how to stay safe, as per Phishing.org:

1. Keep Informed About Phishing Techniques

2. Think Before You Click

3. Install an Anti-Phishing Toolbar

4. Verify a Site’s Security

5. Check Your Online Accounts Regularly

6. Keep Your Browser Up to Date

7. Use Firewalls

8. Be Wary of Pop-Ups

9. Never Give Out Personal Information

10. Use Antivirus Software

A lot of phishing techniques rely on the user unthinkingly clicking on things so always be very wary of pop ups and links in emails. If there are any emails that you are uncertain of, you can always contact the organisation directly to check if it came from them. Often fraudulent messages will also have spelling mistakes or small errors in them. If you think an email is a scam - just delete it. More information on how to stay safe online can be found on the National Cyber Security Centre website.

Read more:

⋙ Warning issued over LinkedIn scam that could steal your personal information

Sources used:

- The Sun 'THREE'S A CROWD Billions of Gmail users told to search for three names in their inbox – ignoring warning signs could leave you ruined'

- Phishing.org '10 Ways To Avoid Phishing Scams'

- National Cyber Security Centre 'Individuals & families'