These text messages claim that an expensive product was ordered from a recipient’s account though the scammers also include a phone number that they can call in case they think there was a mistake. This creates a sense of urgency as shoppers don’t want to be charged for an expensive product they didn’t buy at a time when money is already tight. While this scam first appeared back in March of this year according to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, it makes sense that scammers would want to revive it during the holiday shopping season and they could do so again during other big shopping days like Prime Day. Although it’s currently being distributed by SMS, it could also be sent over email. However, email security filters might detect that it’s spam before it even reaches the inboxes of potential victims. For those unfamiliar, AnyDesk is actually a remote desktop service that allows anyone to control your PC or smartphone from anywhere in the world. While it’s great for tech support or helping an older relative, it can also be abused by hackers and cybercriminals in scams like this one.
How to stay safe from shopping scams
To avoid falling victim to this shopping scam and others like it, you first need to carefully scrutinize any texts you receive from unknown senders claiming to be from major brands. Are there spelling or grammar errors? Does the text message appear genuine? If there are, you can safely ignore the text and delete it. Calling any phone number included in a suspicious text message isn’t worth doing and like Lance did, you should login to a retailer’s site on your smartphone or computer and confirm whether or not any unknown orders were placed from your account. At the same time, you might also want to consider investing in one of the best identity theft protection services as they can help you deal with fraud as well as recovering your identity. Likewise, installing one of the best antivirus software solutions on your computer as well as one of the best Android antivirus apps on your smartphone can help you avoid having your devices infected with malware and other viruses. In a statement to Tom’s Guide, a XGIMI spokesperson provided further insight on this scam impersonating the company’s brand, saying: When it comes to staying safe while shopping online, the one thing you really need to remember is not to let your emotions get the best of you. Scammers rely on this for their phishing campaigns to be successful and if you keep a clear head, you’re way less likely to fall for their tricks.
