A favourite scammer tactic is to distribute fake “payment update” emails that look like they were sent by Netflix.
Many versions of these phishing emails have hit inboxes in recent years.
One new version purports to be a reminder to update your payment method. Supposedly, Netflix couldn’t update your membership because they are “having some trouble with your current card”.
The email urges you to click either a ‘Retry Payment” or “Update Payment Method” button to deal with the supposed issue.
Both buttons take you to a fraudulent website that has been built to emulate the genuine Netflix home page. Once on the site, you will be asked to enter your email address or phone number and your account password into a login form.
Next, you will be presented with a form that asks you to enter your name, address, and contact details, your credit card number, and other identifying information. After submitting the form, you may see a final notice claiming that you have successfully updated your account and dealt with the supposed payment problem. You may then be automatically redirected to the real Netflix website.
Criminals can collect the information you supplied and use it to commit credit card fraud and identity theft.
It is always safer to log in to Netflix by entering the address into your browser’s address bar or via the Netflix app. If there does happen to be a problem with your account, you will likely see a notification after you login.
The Netflix website includes information about recognising and reporting such phishing attempts.
A screenshot of the scam email:
