Scammers are once again pretending to be Amazon—this time, luring shoppers with phony refund offers.

Scammers are once again pretending to be Amazon—this time, luring shoppers with phony refund offers. In a new consumer alert, San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas and the Federal Trade Commission are warning the public about text messages that claim there’s a problem with a recent Amazon purchase. The texts insist a “routine quality inspection” uncovered an issue, and promise a full refund—no return required—if you just click a link. But officials say it’s all a trick.

The texts look convincing, and they use the Amazon name to gain your trust. But instead of a refund, the link leads to a phishing site designed to steal your money or personal information.

Authorities say there are a few simple ways to protect yourself:

Never click links or respond to unexpected texts, even if they look official.
If a message seems legit, contact Amazon directly using trustworthy contact details—not the information in the text.
Check your Amazon orders by logging in through the official app or website, not through a link.
Report unwanted texts by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM) or use your phone’s “report junk” feature. Then, delete the message.

If you come across a scam like this, let the FTC know at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.