As Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days event approaches on October 6, consumers across the UAE have been warned about a surge in online scams exploiting the Amazon name.

Cybersecurity company KnowBe4 said sophisticated phishing attacks in which scammers impersonate Amazon have risen sharply, with brand impersonation increasing by 188 per cent from August to September.

Scammers are exploiting the rise in online shopping and creating a sense of urgency by sending fake order confirmations, failed delivery alerts, account suspension notices and fraudulent reward offers. The main aims of these attacks are to take over user accounts, steal bank card details and distribute malware.

According to KnowBe4 data, more than 95 per cent of these attacks use links that direct users to fake payment portals or login pages designed to steal credentials. To make the messages appear genuine, attackers carefully replicate logos, buttons and even the footers of official emails.

An analysis of attacks detected in the UAE found that all cases recorded in September involved fake “gift” messages, with 100 per cent sent in English. The attacks were spread throughout September, with no particular week identified as the peak period.

Subject lines used in these fraudulent messages included “Gift Alert: Claim Your Free Amazon Cookware Set”, “You Qualify for an Amazon Prize” and “Claim Your Amazon Reward”.

Lucy Gee, senior cyber threat analyst at KnowBe4, warned that as Amazon’s sales event approaches, cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting users’ fear of missing out on deals and discounts.

She advised users to pause before clicking any link. If they receive an email claiming their account has been blocked, a payment has failed or they have won a free prize, they should not use links contained in the message. Instead, users should check their account directly through Amazon’s official app or website and verify the actual destination of links before opening them.

She also stressed that if a discount, gift or offer appears too good to be true, it is most likely a scam.