Netflix has become a popular over-the-top (OTT) platform worldwide. With its presence in more than 190 countries and 222 million subscribers in 2022, Netflix is one of the most popular streaming platforms worldwide, with 70% of users streaming content on Netflix. However, like any other business, Netflix and its users have been a victim of scammers. Actually, Netflix is one of the most frequently impersonated brands by hackers. Netflix’s monthly and yearly subscription plans have been taken advantage of by scammers who use unsuspecting people for financial gain.
How does a Netflix scam work?
Netflix scams mostly happen through phishing. Phishing occurs when someone uses a fake email or phone number to trick you into giving them your personal information. Netflix scammers’ goal is to steal your money, ID or login credentials. These types of emails may also have more than one purpose.
The most common types of Netflix scams and how to avoid them
The Personal Data Thief
In this instance, the scammer’s goal is to steal your personal information, like your Netflix login ID and password. Often, scammers will pose as Netflix to get your personal information. They do this by sending an email that claims someone has been trying to log into your account. To ‘fix’ the issue, you must click on the link below and change your password or enable more security measures. The link in the email will direct you to an identical page on Netflix. Then, they will request your login ID and password, which gives them all the information they want. When a hacker gains access to your Netflix account, he will be able to see your payment details and make purchases with your credit/debit card. In addition, once he has discovered your email and password, it will be easier for him to access other accounts you have.
How can you avoid it?
Hackers do a professional job by creating fake pages that look exactly like legitimate ones. However, there are several ways to identify when it is a fake harmful.
- Install a browser protection tool. Guardio extension blocks any harmful sites you visit when you click on unknown links, ads or popups. The Guardio security team specifically works to create features that will increase the ability to detect phishing and other malicious sites.
- Analyze the URL and the content of the page. We recommend looking for clues such as spelling errors, a sense of urgency or downloading attachments.
- Make sure that a padlock appears on the side of the browser where the address of the web page is. This way, your browser guarantees that the connection is secure.
Netflix Out-of-the-ordinary offers
Common Netflix scams often involve someone sending a victim an email or text message, pretending they have won a free account. They would have to give in their personal details and a small amount of money as payment. The victims, believing this to be true, agree to the trap and send money and their personal information. In this type of scam, the fraudster gets paid and manages to steal your personal information, which they can use for other illegal activities.
How can you avoid it?
- Refrain from believing in offers that are too good to be true.
- Always confirm any offer on Netflix’s official website or by contacting customer service.
- If you receive an offer, search the internet for references from others who have been victims of something similar.
The Extortionists
With this scam, the scammers will send an email that looks like it’s from Netflix. The email will say there was a problem with the last payment for the subscription. The scammers will ask their victims to click the link below and pay them. The victim follows the link to what appears to be an identical Netflix page. Unfortunately, as soon as they enter their payment information, the money goes straight into the scammer’s account rather than paying for their membership.
How can you avoid it?
If you have doubts about your subscription payment, you can always confirm this information directly in your Netflix account. In fact, you can change the payment method, if necessary, directly in the app.
Final thoughts
Several different scams involve Netflix. One common scam is when scammers pose as Netflix to steal your personal information, such as your login details. There are also scams where you might receive an offer for a free Netflix account or be asked to pay for one that is not real. To avoid these scams, make sure that any offers or payments are legitimate and confirmed through official channels. Additionally, installing security tools like Guardio and practicing good online safety habits can help protect you from phishing websites and other harmful scams.