Amazon refund scam calls

Updated 2026-05-03

An automated message claims your Amazon Prime auto-renewed for $79.99. Press 1 to cancel, and a 'support agent' walks you through installing remote-access software so they can 'process your refund'. The endgame is full access to your bank account.

The remote-access pivot

Once you install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, UltraViewer, or Quick Assist, the scammer pretends to refund you. They show a fake banking screen and claim they accidentally refunded too much, then pressure you to send the 'overpayment' back. Your real money goes; their refund never existed.

Why it works on careful people

The script targets Prime members specifically and references real-looking order IDs. It exploits the belief that being on the phone with a 'verified' agent is safer than acting alone.

Red flags

  • Robocall mentioning Prime, Echo, or recent orders
  • Caller asks you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, UltraViewer, or Quick Assist
  • Request to log into your online banking 'so we can refund you'
  • Story that 'too much' was refunded and you must send it back

What to do

  1. Hang up immediately.
  2. Open the Amazon app or amazon.com directly to verify any charges.
  3. If you installed remote software, uninstall it, run a malware scan, and change banking passwords from a different device.
  4. Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Frequently asked questions

Does Amazon ever call about refunds?

Amazon almost never makes outbound calls about billing. Refunds are processed automatically and visible in 'Your Orders'.

How can scammers see my real bank balance?

They can't, until you log in while they watch your screen. Never log into banking on a device a stranger is controlling.