Update Payment Details Scam

Scammers send emails or texts pretending to be from companies you pay each month (like domain providers, streaming services, or utilities). The message claims your recent payment failed or your card expired and urges you to “update your payment details” to avoid service interruption. The link takes you to a fake sign‑in or billing page designed to steal your account password and credit card information.

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Primary example

How this scam works

  1. 1

    Step 1: You receive a notice saying your payment failed or your card needs updating to avoid service disruption.

  2. 2

    Step 2: A big button or link says 'Update Payment' or 'Verify Account' and pushes you to act quickly.

  3. 3

    Step 3: The link opens a website that looks like the real company’s page but is a fake made by scammers.

  4. 4

    Step 4: You’re asked to sign in and enter card details or bank info. The scammers capture this information.

  5. 5

    Step 5: They may show a 'Thank you' screen while using your login and card details to take money or access other accounts.

✓ Do this

  • Go directly to the company’s website by typing the address yourself or using the official app to check your billing.
  • Confirm any issues by contacting the company using the phone number on your bill or on their official site.
  • Look closely at the sender’s email address and any links before clicking.
  • Set up bank or card alerts so you’re notified of unusual charges.
  • Use a credit card (not debit) for subscriptions when possible for better fraud protection.

✗ Avoid this

  • Don’t click 'Update Payment' links in unexpected emails or texts.
  • Don’t enter your password, card number, or one‑time codes after clicking a link from a message.
  • Don’t call phone numbers listed inside suspicious emails or texts.
  • Don’t send photos of your card, banking info, or ID to 'support' by email or chat.
  • Don’t ignore small spelling mistakes, odd sender addresses, or brand mismatches — these are red flags.

Quick tip: Verify independently

Don’t call numbers or click links in unexpected messages. Go directly to the company’s official site or app and contact support from there.

See common red flags