Cyber scams, which can steal valuable financial information, are alarming security experts who warn viewers subscribing to Netflix. Fake messages masquerading as communications from the online entertainment portal are sending victims into a panic while committing cyber fraud to collect sensitive financial information from people.

According to cybersecurity firm Bitdefender, this attack has become one of the most widespread scams, with so many users becoming victims of the recent tactics. The fresh wave of this scam is highly active, which was launched in September and includes users from 23 different countries, including the US.

Netflix Phishing Scam on the Move

Experts Warn About 'Very Large' Netflix Cyber Scam

According to Cybernews, the phishing scam typically starts through a fake SMS message claiming that it has some problems with a Netflix account. Common threats include:

• "Failed payment"
• Account suspension

These messages provide links that take the victim to fake websites mimicking the login page of Netflix. Once on the page, users unknowingly input their login credentials, personal information, and even credit card details.

Bitdefender warns that this stolen information often ends up for sale on the dark web, where it can be used by criminal networks.

Why Netflix Accounts Are Easy Targets

Netflix lacks 2FA, which exposes it more to cyber attacks. As such, the streaming giant relies solely on names and passwords to protect your account.

The little level of protection it provides permits the scammers to "spearphish"-that is, launch specific, targeted scams designed to prompt victims to act promptly.

The Psychology Behind the Scam

Urgency is a weapon scam artists use to pressure people into compliance. When "missed payment" strikes, it sets a person into panic mode because the urgency of needing to access your Netflix account may become such an issue.

More people are likely to click links without thinking, believing it's their only way to get their favorite show or film.

How to Prevent Becoming a Victim of the Netflix Scam

To avoid falling into such traps, follow these fundamental preventive measures, The New York Post reported.

1. Be wary of these SMS from Netflix: Netflix doesn't send account-related messages. If you receive something similar, it is probably fake.
2. Don't click any link in the message. Just type in Netflix's official site URL in your browser's address bar.
3. Always on the lookout for the suspect elements: Poor grammar, urgent requests, and unknown sender numbers are all warning signs.
4. Enable strong security practices: While Netflix lacks 2FA, consider using a unique and strong password for your account to reduce vulnerabilities.

Hidden Threats: Phishing Apps

While most scams come through text, Bitdefender cautions that some malicious software could already exist on users' devices, disguised as legitimate apps. Regularly review app permissions and remove anything suspicious to mitigate risks.

A few days ago, Tech Times reported that 15 predatory loan apps were spotted on PlayStore. McAfee said that smartphone users should be careful since these Spyloan apps can access your personal information without any consent.

At first, the apps appeared to be credible since they often have five-star reviews. The high ratings suggest that you can trust this app. Unfortunately, it can harvest your data and hijack permissions. Once these happen, extortion takes place, and users receive threats in the form of harassment in texts.