BBB Warns of Streaming Scam

If you’ve signed up for a streaming service, such as Netflix, Disney+, PBS Passport, or Hulu, be careful when activating your account. 

 

The Better Business Bureau is reporting that  scammers are trying to steal login information and other personal data with fake websites that appear to come from the streaming service provider.  

 

Here’s how the scam works.

 

You purchased a subscription to a streaming service. To activate it, you need to log in on your web browser. A quick search brings up several links with the streaming service’s official name. You click on the first result.

 

However, the website doesn’t look quite right. For example, as soon as you click the link, the site prompts you to update your web browser. 

 

Scammers have set up a lookalike website to trick you into downloading malware. 

 

If you click “Update” or any other button, you could download a virus that gives scammers access to your personal information. It’s best to close the page immediately.

 

Other times, when you click on the search result, you’re directed to a website that features the official logo and branding of your streaming service. 

 

However, it looks a little (or sometimes a lot) different than what you remember. 

 

If you enter your user ID and password on a lookalike site, it goes into the hands of scammers. 

 

These con artists then have the information they need to access your real account on the official website–as well as anywhere else you use that username and password.

 

The Better Business Bureau advises you can avoid these scams by always double checking that you are visiting an official website. 

 

Scammers can make fake websites look legitimate in search engine’s results, but they can’t copy a website’s official URL. 

 

Also, be wary of ads and sponsored links. Sometimes scammers use ads to get their lookalike website to appear first in the search results. Remember, just because a website is at the top of the list doesn’t mean it’s the official website.

 

Be careful with your login information. Always make sure you are on an official website before entering your username and password.