Milton Keynes residents receive scam emails pretending to be from their 'friend' billionaire Jeff Bezos

    Hundreds of new scams have cropped up over the past few months, with one of the most recent being a hoax personalised email from billionaire Jeff Bezos.

    This comes as Jeff Bezos, the wealthiest man in the world, is stepping down as CEO of Amazon.

    Amazon's revenue has massively increased as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the online retailer stating that profits for 2020 increased by 38% - standing at $386.1bn (£283bn).

    And, it seems that scammers think this is the perfect opportunity to try and cash in themselves.

    There is now a hoax email doing the rounds which claims to be from Mr Bezos himself, addressing the recipient as his "good friend".

    This email alleges that Amazon's funds have been "transferred out of the country" to someone who will assist Bezos with his "new venture".

    It adds: "Due to your effort, sincerity, courage and trustworthiness at the course of transaction I wish to compensate you and show my gratitude to you with the sum of $800,000.00 (EIGHT HUNDRED THOUSAND UNITED STATES DOLLARS)."

    The scammer tells the recipient the money will be deposited so long as they provide their banking details.

    This is not true and is simply a hoax. It is expected that victims will unknowingly provide their details and be conned out of money. 

    Other scams that are doing the rounds include fake police calls and vaccination scams.

    You can report any attempt to steal your money and/or personal information to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or report it online.

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