Community Corner

Phishing Scam Targets Netflix Users: 'Definitely Not From Us'

The fraudulent email tells Netflix users their accounts are suspended and updated billing information is needed.

The video streaming company Netflix has been targeted in a fraudulent email that asks customers to update their account billing information. Police nationwide are warning residents of the phishing scam, which claims Netflix is “having some trouble” with the customer’s current billing information and that the customer’s account is “on hold.”

It includes an “update your account now” button that takes users to the fraudulent site.

“Yikes! That definitely didn't come from us,” the company said in a tweet after a user sent a screenshot of an email received as part of the scam. “Any communications you get via email from Netflix will come from info@mailer.netflix.com.”

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Anyone who receives a similar email is asked to report it as a phishing scam.

Anyone who suspects fraud in an email message or text message that appears to be from Netflix should follow these tips:

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  • Never enter your login or financial details after following a link in an email or text message.
  • If you’re unsure if you’re visiting the legitimate Netflix website, type www.netflix.com directly into your web browser.
  • Never click on any links or open any attachments in an email or text message you’ve unexpectedly received, regardless of the source.
  • It you suspect an email or text message is not from Netflix, don’t reply to it. Rather, report it as a phishing scam to Netflix.

If you already clicked a suspicious link or provided any personal information, you should:

  • Change your Netflix password to a new, unique one.
  • Update your password on any websites you used the same email and password for.
  • Contact your financial institution if any payment information was entered, as it may have been compromised.
  • Forward the message to phishing@netflix.com with the steps above.
    Photo via Solon, Ohio, police

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