That text about your Netflix account could be a scam – and it’s catching thousands out

It’s happened to all of us. Messages that appear while you’re doing something else. Your payment could not be processed. Your account will be suspended. Confirmation of your details is required to prevent interruption.

It seems normal for a split second when you glance at it and think of the three or more streaming subscriptions that you pay for.

Scammers are counting on that half-second.

Cybersecurity companies across Europe have warned about a recent wave of fake emails, text messages and social media posts that pretend to be from Netflix. Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max. The messages are polished, familiar, and official. There are logos. The tone is right. Sometimes, the design is nearly identical to the real item.

You will be taken to another website by clicking the link.

Simple. The goal is simple: Get the user to enter their passwords, credit card numbers or other personal information. Once this happens, it is possible to hijack accounts, make payments, or sell data. It’s not long.

This isn’t only for people “who aren’t tech-savvy”. Many savvy users are also caught out, often when they’re distracted, tired or rushed.

Why streaming platforms make such easy targets for scammers

Streaming services are becoming a regular part of life. Many households have more than one subscription. Payments are renewed automatically. Card information is stored. No one really keeps track every billing date.

This is perfect from the criminal’s perspective.

Security experts say that fake messages are usually based on one of three scenarios. It can be a phony payment failure, or a problem with your account. Sometimes, it’s an upgrade or special offer. It can also be a refund that you didn’t expect. All of them trigger emotion – worry, curiosity, relief – and all of them push for quick action.

The urgency is deliberate. You’ll be able to check correctly if you’re calm. When you’re distracted or stressed, you are more likely to click and then think.

Fake websites can be very convincing. Same colours. Same layout. The same type of login box. You enter your details, maybe even your card number, and only later realise something isn’t right – if you notice at all.

The information has already been lost.

Most people miss the smallest clues

Even the best scams have tiny cracks. Just slow down to see them.

The tone is a common indicator. Messages that push hard – “act now”, “final warning”, “immediate suspension” – are designed to rush you. Text messages are rarely used by real companies to threaten their customers.

Sloppy details can also be a sign. A sentence that is oddly written. Logo that is a little outdated. Design that seems a little out of place. On a phone, it’s easy to overlook these details.

Be sure to check the sender. Look at the sender’s address, not just the display name. A legit platform will not send emails from free email addresses or strange domains.

If a message asks you for your full card number or password, close it right away. No real streaming company operates in this way.

It’s simple: Don’t click on links in messages. If you are worried, check the official app on your phone or the website directly. This only takes a minute. This can save you a lot.

How to stay safe without being paranoid

No one wants to be suspicious about every notification. It is important to be cautious.

Before you react, take a deep breath. It’s important to not panic if something seems urgent.

Check independently. You will see if your account is having a problem if you log in normally.

Keep personal data off of your emails and texts. When a company needs to update your account, they will direct you to the secure area.

If a message seems wrong, you can delete it. If your platform allows it, report the message. Keep moving.

Cybersecurity experts also point out that scam campaigns often surge during busy times – sales periods, holidays, subscription renewal seasons – when inboxes are flooded and attention is stretched thin.

The streaming services are designed to make your life easier. After work, a film. Weekend series. Background comfort. Scammers know familiarity makes you less vigilant.

Don’t be tempted to click on a message that claims your favorite platform is having a problem. Don’t just click. Do a thorough check.

Some of the best moves online are simply doing nothing.