Netflix users, watch out: A new scam is making the rounds in the that is targeting customers for their banking information.
The hoax comes in the form of an email with hallmarks that look nearly identical to official messages from the streaming service. The message claims that your account has been disabled and to reactivate it, you need to update your payment details. In reality, by clicking on the link and entering your payment information, you may be giving hackers direct access to your banking details.
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As of right now, there are only reports of this happening in the U.K., but all users should keep a lookout.
Tweeps, beware this Netflix email scam. DO NOT click any links in the email. pic.twitter.com/m8Pv3glGCTSeptember 14, 2017
After news of the scam began to make the rounds, police departments have taken to Twitter to warn consumers not to click on the link.
Please be aware of the #Netflix scam...... https://t.co/xqkT8FhEpSSeptember 19, 2017
It'll be Netflix and no chill if you get caught with this scam, be #ScamAlert #Netflix https://t.co/wzNIE7V08CSeptember 19, 2017
And another #phishy one to be aware of folks... #phishing #Netflix #CyberProtecthttps://t.co/IBbHCMnZeqSeptember 19, 2017
A Netflix spokesperson said in a statement that when these scams arise, the privacy of their costumers is their main concern.
"We take the security of our members' accounts seriously and Netflix employs numerous proactive measures to detect fraudulent activity to keep the Netflix service and our members' accounts secure. Unfortunately, scams are common on the internet and target popular brands such as Netflix and other companies with large customer bases to lure users into giving out personal information. Members who want to learn more about how to keep their personal information safe against phishing scams and other malicious activity can go to netflix.com/security or contact Customer Service directly."
The Good Housekeeping Institute says that in these situations, being wary before you click on any links or enter any personal information is key. They recommend taking the following precautions when looking at a suspicious email to avoid becoming a victim:
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1. Always check who the sender is. Even if the email seems legit, hover your cursor over the address to see where it really came from; if there isn't a match, be wary.
2. Never download any attachments or click directly on any links. Instead, it's worth it to directly type in the website in a separate browser if it is related to an account you have.
3. Keep an eye out for bad grammar or any typos. These are often a direct giveaway that it's a fake email. Legit businesses proofread their communications.
If you find yourself in a situation where you've entered personal information like your log in credentials or payment details, monitor you bank transactions and change your password to Netflix and any other accounts that use the same password and username combo.
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