When it comes to streaming, Netflix is one of the largest and most popular platforms out there. Their shows are highly rated, with a multitude of options to browse through.
The platform’s popularity increased even more during the pandemic, with more people looking towards their screens for entertainment. With such an extensive audience, it’s also become a target for opportunistic fraudsters looking to take advantage.
Here is a breakdown of a few Netflix scams that you need to look out for.
False Sign-Up Pages
This one is targeted at those looking to sign up for Netflix. The scam is built around fake websites, which are designed to look like the official Netflix website. When you sign up for Netflix, you need to provide certain information which is sensitive. These fraudsters create false sign-up pages that look just like the real thing, and when you enter all your details, they capture it for themselves. Not only are they stealing your information, but your money as well. By entering your payment info into this fake sign-up form, you are actually making a payment to them.
What To Look Out For
In these fake sign-up pages, you often find simple errors, which are clear signs that something is up. Look for incorrectly spelt words and incorrect grammar. Also, take a look at the URL (website address) to see if something looks off. If you find these errors, close the page down! Consider how you access the page as well. Was it sent to you in an email from someone you don’t know, or did you click on an advert that just didn’t seem right?
Fake Episodes
Another Netflix scam is on actual content. Fraudsters often take advantage of popular shows by creating fake episodes on fake Netflix websites to attract interested viewers into signing up to watch a ‘new episode’. Unknowing victims then sign up to these fake websites only to have their personal information and credit card details stolen from them. Cybercriminals also then hijack existing Netflix accounts to sell on the dark web, blocking you from access.
What To Look Out For
Never click on links that are sent to you in emails from unknown sources. Also, use common sense on this one. If you see an advert for an episode of your favorite show that you have never heard of before, go to the official Netflix page to check its validity. If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.
Account On Hold
The tactic for cybercriminals in this scam is to send out communication stating that your Netflix account is on hold until payment details have been updated. The emails look legit, attracting many people who might be panicked that they can’t watch their favorite show that evening because of outdated payment info.
Once they click on the link and enter their payment details on the fake page, they’re in trouble. The fraudster now has their payment information which they will most certainly not use for good!
What To Look Out For
As with the false sign-up scam, keep a close eye on any grammar or information errors. If you do receive such a notice from ‘Netflix’, don’t click on the link provided but rather log into the official Netflix account and take a look for yourself.
Advertising New Netflix Deals
Similar to the fake episode and other Netflix scams, you may receive an email from ‘Netflix’ advertising a unique promotion on upgrading your account or opening a new account. These are designed to lure you in and steal your information. Again, if it’s too good to be true, it probably is!
What To Look Out For
An email from ‘Netflix’ advertising unique rates, usually with a ‘For a limited time only’ message. Rather go to the official website to check if the promotion exists.
Be Vigilant
In today’s world of technology, there are opportunistic criminals all around us. By staying vigilant and using common sense, you can avoid falling for these and many other Netflix scams.
You’ll be able to enjoy binge-watching real Netflix shows, and still have money in your account! Read about other scams that you should look out for on Anti Fraud News.