Millions of Netflix users are the target of a threatening email scam. Better Business Bureau Serving the Northwest is warning users of this worldwide phishing scam that is stealing personal information.
The email claiming to be from Netflix, tells users to click on a link that leads them to a fake, but convincing, Netflix homepage. It threatens to suspend their membership if they don’t click on the link and enter their billing information and payment method. Some versions even ask for a Social Security number.
BBB recommends that users protect themselves with these tips:
Access your account directly. Go to your account to confirm you can get in and look for any messages in your messenger box indicating a problem.
Careful where you click. Do not click on any links or attachments.
Don’t skim. Read the email carefully for signs that it may be fake (for example, misspellings, grammatical errors, generic greetings such as “Dear member” instead of a name, etc.).
Verify links. Hover your mouse over links without clicking to see the address. The URL in the text should match the URL that your mouse detects. If the two do not match, it is most likely a scam.
Dump it. Delete the email from your computer completely (be sure to empty your “recycle bin or trash” as well).
Monitor accounts frequently. Keep a close eye on your bank statements for any unexpected or unexplained transactions.
Recover quickly. If you have clicked on any of the links within the email, immediately change your email and network passwords and notify your local IT provider for next steps and actions.
