Consumer Reports warns of fake recall texts targeting shoppers
Consumer Reports warned that scammers are sending fake product recall texts and advised shoppers to verify alerts through the retailer’s app or official recall sites instead of clicking message links.
Consumer Reports is warning shoppers about scam text messages that pose as product recall notices and try to push recipients to click a link. The warning came after one consumer, Taylor Frost Smith, received a message that claimed to be an Amazon Product Recall Notice.
The scam can affect everyday products, including child car seats, kitchen appliances and lawn tools. A fake alert can steer consumers to give away personal information or follow a link that is not tied to a real recall.
In the WSLS segment, Smith said the text told her that something she bought in December was under recall and offered details and refund options through a link. She said the message also included wording that made her question it, including a claim that it was meant for only 18 people from Amazon.
Smith checked her Amazon app, entered the order number and asked Amazon’s AI tool, Rufus, whether there was a recall. Amazon confirmed there was no recall and said the message was a phishing scam, according to the report.
Smith said she is careful about registering products so she can learn about recalls. She also said she buys many items online and has three young children, which makes recall notices especially important to her.
Oriene Shin of Consumer Reports told viewers not to respond to the text or click on any links. Shin said consumers should go to the app or website where they bought the product and check there for recall information.
Shin also pointed shoppers to recalls.gov and the Consumer Product Safety Commission website. The report said registered products may also trigger an email or mailed letter with instructions. Amazon also has a page listing the latest recalls and product safety alerts.
Smith said checking the app is what saved her. “double check, double check,” she said.
Consumers can check the original purchase app or website, verify any notice through official recall pages and ignore links in messages that appear suspicious.
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Editorial note: This article was prepared with AI assistance and includes source attribution for reader review.
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