The following scam recap was provided by an employee of ELGA Credit Union.
Recently I purchased several items from Amazon (unfortunately an all to frequent occurrence). A few days later, while at work, I received a call that stated they were calling from Amazon regarding a few suspect transactions on my Amazon account. They stated there was an order placed for a iPhone 12 to be delivered to Maryland. Obviously I’m in Michigan so product delivery to Maryland would raise some flags for Amazon. As I had recently placed an Amazon order, I was taken aback and concerned. I stated I did not place this order, and the caller proceeded to state he would block the order. He then asked several relevant questions as far as if I had responded to any recent emails or calls stating they were Amazon, knew of anyone that could have used my Amazon account to place the order, etc. – all of which I answered No to. He then stated it was important to block the fraud account that had been created with my information, which he would assist me with over the phone. He then requested I have my phone available and on speaker. He then directed me to go to the App store and search for an app called GoToAssist. Essentially this app is used by many legitimate companies for many legitimate reasons, and allows a remote user access to your phone. At this point I did end the call as I was aware it was a scam and an attempt to gain access to my phone.
As part of my employment with ELGA, I was familiar with this type of ‘hijack’ scam. Even so, for much of the beginning of the call I was concerned there had been a legitimate compromise of my Amazon account and wanted to be sure to protect myself. These calls play on your fear and a little bit of panic in being told there is a large dollar order being place on your account. Any one of us can fall victim to one of these scams! The caller did not ask for my card # or any personal information and asked relevant questions regarding the supposed fraud transaction. Only when he directed me to access the app store was I 100% certain this was a scam call. These fraudsters are very good at presenting themselves as a support person, someone there to help protect you, and a reputable associate of a legitimate business (Amazon in this case). Don’t fall for it! As soon as anyone asks you to download any sort of software – it is suspect, especially if it’s a remote access app. Once they get access to your phone, very often they download additional apps or software, or can access any other apps you have on your phone (perhaps a cash app? With your password saved?) (your ELGA online banking app?) If you are ever unsure, call the vendor direct with their publically posted contact information (do not use a number provided to you by an unknown person).
Stay safe!