In the digital age, our online shopping habits have become as routine as our morning cuppa. With the convenience of a few clicks, we can have everything from books to blenders delivered to our doorstep. Amazon, a titan in the e-commerce world, has become a household name, boasting over 310 million active users globally. But with great convenience comes great risk, and the reality is that Amazon accounts are a goldmine for cybercriminals. It's crucial for our savvy seniors to stay alert and recognise the signs of a compromised account. Here's how to tell if your Amazon account has been hacked and the steps you should take to safeguard your digital shopping cart.


**Sign 1: Trouble Logging In**
The first red flag that your Amazon account may have been compromised is difficulty logging in. If you're certain you're entering the correct email and password but still can't access your account, it's possible that a hacker has altered your login details. While there's a chance Amazon has temporarily frozen your account due to unusual activity, it's more likely that you've been hacked.


**Sign 2: Altered Account Details**
Have you noticed changes to your account details that you didn't make? Perhaps your shipping address, email, or contact information has been tampered with. Hackers may change these details to divert deliveries or hide their tracks. It's essential to regularly check your account information for any unauthorized changes.


**Sign 3: Unfamiliar Purchase Activity**
Receiving packages you didn't order or spotting purchases in your order history that don't ring a bell are telltale signs of a breach. Hackers may use your account to boost sales figures or to conduct fraudulent transactions. Keep an eye on your browsing history, too; unfamiliar items could indicate someone else is shopping on your dime.

**Sign 4: Reviews You Didn't Write**
If you see glowing reviews for products you've never purchased or negative feedback on items you've never heard of, it's likely a hacker is using your account for a 'brushing scam.' This involves posting fake reviews to manipulate product ratings and should be reported immediately.

**Immediate Protective Actions**
If you suspect your Amazon account has been hacked, act swiftly to minimise damage:


1. **Change Your Password**: Make it complex and unique, and update it regularly. Enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.

2. **Check Account Details**: Verify that your email, phone number, and financial information are correct and haven't been altered by someone else.

3. **Review Transactions**: Scrutinize your order history for any suspicious activity and report it to Amazon's customer service or through their Report a Scam page.

4. **Log Out Everywhere**: Sign out of your Amazon account on all devices to prevent further unauthorised access.

5. **Run an Antivirus Scan**: Ensure your device hasn't been compromised by malware that could have facilitated the hack.


**Recovering Your Amazon Account**
If you're locked out, you can reset your password using the email or phone number linked to your account. Follow the prompts to receive a one-time password and create a new one. If you encounter issues, contact Amazon's customer service for assistance and be prepared to verify your identity.

**Preventing Future Hacks**
To keep your Amazon account secure, maintain a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication. Add a secondary communication channel, such as a mobile number, and regularly update your details. Be vigilant against phishing attempts and never share sensitive information in response to unsolicited messages.

**Bottom Line**
While enjoying the perks of online shopping, staying vigilant about cybersecurity is vital. You can protect your personal and financial information by recognising the signs of a hacked Amazon account and knowing how to respond. Remember, prevention is better than cure, so take proactive steps to secure your account and enjoy peace of mind while indulging in the convenience of online shopping.
Have you or someone you know experienced a hack? Share your story and how you handled it in the comments below to help fellow members stay safe online!