How to Spot Fake Amazon Order Confirmation Emails Targeting Australian Shoppers

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Spot Fake Amazon Order Confirmation Emails Targeting Australian Shoppers. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Fraudulent Amazon order confirmation emails are a common phishing tactic used to steal login credentials and payment details. These messages often appear legitimate, using Amazon branding and urgent language to trick recipients into clicking malicious links. This guide helps Australian small business owners and home office users identify fake Amazon emails and protect their accounts.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Do not click any links or open attachments in the email.
2. Check the sender address carefully.
3. Log in to Amazon directly by typing amazon.com.au into your browser.
4. Check your order history in your Amazon account.
5. Delete the suspicious email and report it to Amazon.

Detailed Instructions

Check the Sender Email Address

Phishing emails often use addresses that look similar to Amazon’s but are not official. Look for:

• Public email domains such as @gmail.com, @outlook.com, or @yahoo.com
• Misspelled domains such as @amaz0n.com.au or @amazon-security.com
• Extra words before the domain, such as amazon.com.au.verification-example.com

Legitimate Amazon emails come from addresses ending in @amazon.com.au or @amazon.com. However, sender addresses can be spoofed, so this check alone is not enough.

Look for Urgent or Threatening Language

Fake order confirmations often pressure you to act quickly. Common warning phrases include:

• “Your order has been suspended”
• “Unauthorised purchase detected”
• “Verify your account within 24 hours”
• “Click here to cancel this order”

Amazon does not demand immediate action via email to avoid account closure or order cancellation.

Inspect Links Before Clicking

Hover your mouse over any button or link in the email without clicking. Look at the URL shown at the bottom of your email client or browser. Warning signs include:

• Links that do not go to amazon.com.au
• URLs with IP addresses instead of domain names
• Shortened links from services such as bit.ly or tinyurl.com
• Links asking you to “verify”, “update”, or “confirm” your payment details

Check for Personalisation and Order Details

Legitimate Amazon order confirmation emails typically:

• Address you by your full name
• Show the last four digits of the payment card used
• Include specific product details and order totals
• Match an order visible in your Amazon account

Generic greetings such as “Dear Customer” or “Dear Account Holder” are common in phishing emails.

Log In to Amazon Directly

1. Open your web browser.
2. Type amazon.com.au into the address bar and press Enter.
3. Select Sign in.
4. Enter your email address and password.
5. Select Returns & Orders from the top navigation.
6. Review your recent orders to see if the purchase listed in the email exists.

If the order does not appear in your account history, the email is fraudulent.

Report and Delete the Email

1. Forward the suspicious email to [email protected].
2. Do not forward it to other contacts or post it publicly.
3. Delete the email from your inbox.
4. Empty your Deleted Items or Trash folder.

When to Get Help

If you believe your Amazon account or personal information has been compromised, secure your accounts immediately. You can also Open a Ticket with 220 Internet Services for assistance with email security and phishing protection.

Still Having Issues?