Scammers are constantly looking for new ways to trick consumers and their latest method is definitely one to watch out for. Reports are flooding in that Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo and other email users are being targeted by a new attack that is using the popular Shein online shopping firm to dupe unsuspecting customers.
These latest batch of messages attempt to entice people into clicking on dangerous links via the lure of a “mystery SHIEN box!” The emails look very real and, with the offer of a surprise gift, it’s easy to see how some are being tricked.
Those who do click the links won’t win any prizes. What’s more likely is that they will end up handing over personal details such as user names, passwords and even bank account data to cyber crooks.
According to the security experts at Action Fraud UK, it’s a growing problem. In fact, there have been more than 7,900 reports of scam emails offering free ‘mystery boxes’.
Now is a good time to be on red alert and delete anything that looks too good to be true or suggests you are due to receive any type of mystery gift.
Another scam that’s doing the round also claims you’ll win a ‘Shein Mystery Box!” by taking part in a quick online survey.
This attack was spotted by the consumer team at Which? and should be deleted without delay.
“The links in these emails lead to malicious phishing websites where scammers attempt to steal your personal and financial information,” Which? explained.
Most email providers such as Gmail, Microsoft and Yahoo now offer very good spam protection. This filters out dangerous messages automatically and stops most fake emails ever ending up in your inbox.
However, some could still slip through the net so always be careful especially if you come across an email offering rewards or telling you a deal ends soon. That sense of urgency is often a red flag.
Other things to check is the address of the sender and whether they have used your real name in the message. Scammers have got very good at impersonating big brands so even if the message looks official it could still be a scam.
If you’re unsure don’t click – it could end up being costly. If you are sent a scam message you can forward it directly to authorities. Simply send it to report@phishing.gov.uk.
