SCAM AWARENESSSubscription renewal scams
Subscription renewal scams send fake notices saying you were just charged for a renewal, such as antivirus software, a streaming service, or a computer support plan. The goal is to scare you into calling a phone number or clicking a link to cancel. The people you reach are scammers who try to get your money, card numbers, or control of your computer.
How this scam works
The message looks like an invoice with a logo, an order number, and a large charge. It says the plan will renew unless you call within a day or two. Many people have never heard of the product, which worries them enough to pick up the phone.
When you call, a friendly "agent" offers a refund. They may ask you to install a remote access app so they can process it, then claim they accidentally refunded too much. They pressure you to send back the difference with gift cards, a wire, cash, or cryptocurrency. Others simply collect your card or bank details, or log in to your online banking while you watch.
What it can look like
EXAMPLE · NOT A REAL MESSAGEEmail: "Thank you for your order. Your Premium Device Protection plan has been renewed for $399.99. This amount will be charged within 24 hours. If you did not authorize this renewal, call our billing department at [number] to cancel and request a refund."
Warning signs
- A renewal notice for a service you never signed up for
- A large charge with a short deadline to cancel
- A phone number to call instead of a link to your real account
- Sender uses a free email address or a name that does not match the company
- The "agent" wants remote access to your computer to issue a refund
- You are told you were over-refunded and must send money back
How to protect yourself
- Do not call numbers or click links in surprise renewal notices.
- Check charges by logging in to the company's site or app that you open yourself.
- Review your bank and card statements for charges, instead of trusting the email.
- Never let a stranger who contacted you control your computer remotely.
- Remember that no real refund requires gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or cash.
If you already responded
- If you gave card or bank details, call the number on the back of your card or on your statement and report fraud.
- If you allowed remote access, disconnect from the internet, uninstall the remote app, and have the computer checked by someone you trust.
- Change passwords for email, banking, and other important accounts from a different, safe device.
- If you bought gift cards, contact the gift card company right away and report the fraud.
- Watch your accounts closely, and report the scam to the FTC.
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Where to report it
Common questions
I got an email saying I was charged for a subscription I never ordered. What should I do?
Do not call the number or click anything in the email. Check your bank or card statement for a real charge. If you have an account with the company named, log in through its official website or app that you open yourself.
Why do scammers want me to call instead of click?
A phone call lets them build trust and pressure you in real time. They can walk you through installing remote access software, reading your card number, or buying gift cards. A phone number may also slip past email filters more easily than a link.
The refund agent said they sent me too much money. Should I send it back?
No. This is a common trick. The "extra refund" is usually money moved between your own accounts, or a number changed on your screen. No real company asks you to return money with gift cards, wire, cash, or crypto. Hang up and call your bank.