Warning not to download software as scammers use Amazon as ploy to trick people out of cash

Conartists claiming to work for Amazon have been using software in their latest attempt to trick people out cash.
By Fiona Thompson
Published 4th Dec 2020, 20:03 BST
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Durham Constabulary has issued a warning over the scam carried out by conmen, who call people up and say they are from the online retailer and that fraudulent activity has been spotted on their accounts.

A spokesperson for the force said: “During the calls, the scammers ask the call taker to download software onto their computer called Team Viewer, which allows the caller to get remote access to the computer.

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Durham Constabulary has issued an alert after conmen claiming they worked for Amazon called people to trick them out of money. Photo by PA.Durham Constabulary has issued an alert after conmen claiming they worked for Amazon called people to trick them out of money. Photo by PA.
Durham Constabulary has issued an alert after conmen claiming they worked for Amazon called people to trick them out of money. Photo by PA.
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“From there, they get the call taker to log in to their online banking to check for any fraudulent activity.

"They are then told to transfer large sums of money from their account to another account.

"Please alert your friends, neighbours and friends to this scam, particularly if they are vulnerable.”

Incidents can be reported to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online via www.actionfraud.police.uk/.

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