To say that Netflix is a household name that's synonymous with anything TV would still be an understatement. The popular streaming service is nothing short of a pop culture icon. Today, it boasts over 220 million subscribers in more than 190 countries, making it one of the most popular streaming platforms in the world. Because of its astronomical popularity, Netflix is also one of the most commonly impersonated brands when it comes to phishing scams. We have put together a complete streaming services scam guide so you can Netflix and chill worry-free.
Netflix Text Phishing Scams
Keep an eye out for text messages claiming you need to update your account status. These may be scammers to get you to click on a phishing link. If you click on a “bad” link, it will take you to a fake Netflix login page where the hacker will ask you for your personal information or credit card details. If you provide any information, they can then use it to hack into your account or commit other cybercrimes.
Netflix Email Phishing Scams
You may have recently received an email from Netflix that looks like a legitimate message from the brand. It’s usually some sort of exclusive reward designed to draw you in and get you to click on a button that will take you to an online survey. Don't be fooled by scammers promising free gifts! They only want to steal your personal information. These fake pages will record everything you enter, which cybercriminals can use to access your bank account or steal your identity.
Common Netflix Scams
While there are many types of Netflix scams with different goals, they all have one thing in common: tricking you out of your hard-earned money. Here we'll discuss the various types of Netflix scams, their look, and how you can protect yourself.
Special Pricing for 25,000 Subscribers
This is a scam where the first 25,000 people to subscribe will supposedly get a special price for their Netflix subscription for the entire year. When you click the link in the email, you will be redirected to a web page that looks like the Netflix website. Here, users need to enter their banking or credit card information and personal information.
Netflix Payment Was Declined
The email says that Netflix could not complete the monthly payment because of some problems with the payment method, such as insufficient money, wrong information, or a lack of authentication from the card-issuing bank. The scammers then advise the victim to update their payment information so that they can continue their Netflix subscription. You will be redirected to a fake login page if you decide to renew or update your payment information. This page's design goal is to get your banking information.
Time is running out on your Netflix Membership
This scam tries to get you to update your payment information. According to the email, Netflix will only cancel the subscription if your bank card information is updated. Once you click the link provided, you will be redirected to a fake landing page where the attacker will collect your data. This is made to deceive users who do not want their Netflix streaming to be cut off.
Free Netflix Subscription For a Year
This scam is similar to the first Netflix scam. You are offered a supposedly free Netflix subscription for a year as part of the company's anniversary promo. When you hit the Join Now button, you will be prompted to enter your data, including your full name, email address, credit card information, and other details.
What can you do to stay safe?
- Make sure to check the correct sender's mobile number/email address.
- Any offer or link that seems "too good to be true" is probably just that. Other red flags include free gifts and prizes.
- Make sure to go directly to the Netflix Help Center for issues with your account. Only click on links from familiar websites, as these might lead you astray or worse.
- Never click on links or attachments from people you don't know. Use a browser protection tool.
Wrapping up
Netflix is a popular streaming service that millions of people use to watch their favorite movies, TV shows, and more. However, scammers will sometimes use phishing emails and fake websites to try and steal users' personal information. Avoid these scams by checking the sender's email address or mobile number for accuracy, being wary of "too good to be true" offers, never clicking on links from unknown senders, and using protection tools in your browser. By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself against Netflix scams.
