Amazon Prime Day is also a prime time for scammers

WASHINGTON (TND) — Amazon Prime Day is here and experts want to remind consumers that these next few days of heavy shopping are also prime days for scammers.

According to Reuters, Prime Day(s) is expected to generate $14 billion in sales this year. David Hyde, an assistant professor at Vanderbilt University said these days are prime targets for scammers.

There is really a multi-billion dollar industry out there of people trying to prey on ordinary consumers," said Hyde.

Hyde said one way scammers try and trick consumers is by creating fake websites that almost look identical to the real thing.

"It takes you to a website that almost looks like Amazon, behaves the same way," Hyde said.

To spot one of these websites, Hyde tells us, pay attention to the language being used.

Maybe the URL will be Amazon with a zero. It won't actually say Amazon.com," said Hyde.

A tip Jun Li, a fellow computer science professor echoes, adding that sometimes people have their guard down during heavy spending days.

"Days like this, people's vigilance may (be) lower," said Li.

Plus, contrary to popular belief, Hyde said research shows, younger shoppers are beginning to fall victim.

These people who have grown up sort of inundated with media, conducting their daily lives online are probably a little more susceptible," said Hyde.

Over the years, fraud has continued to increase.

According to The Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing about $10 billion to fraud last year. Up 14% from 2022.