The FTC warns users of a phishing scam involving fake Netflix email messages designed to steal personal and payment information.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warning was posted online just last week and includes a screenshot of the phishing email, previously shared by police in Ohio:
The attackers warn users that their account is on hold because Netflix is “having some trouble with your current billing information.” This is a common phishing scam characteristic used to trick users into taking prompt action and update payment details on their account.
The FTC provides guidance users should take in not falling for this and related phishing scams.
For instance, users should contact the company directly vs. clicking on links to messages. Also, pay close attention to message authenticity. Bad grammar and misspellings are red flags of possible fake messages. Also, if your name is missing from the email, this is a clear giveaway of a possible scam as well.
To report phishing messages, you may contact:
- [email protected] (Netflix emails)
- [email protected] (an address used by the FTC)
- [email protected] (an address used by the Anti-Phishing Working Group, which includes ISPs, security vendors, financial institutions, and law enforcement agencies).
You may also report phishing to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.