Fraudsters are sending out scam postcards featuring dodgy QR codes. Pretending to be from Amazon, the scammers claim that the company are offering a free product, such as earphones, that ask you to part with money to then claim it back.

Consumer champions at Which? say that all you need to do is scan the QR code, purchase the product and then send an email to receive a refund. "However, the 'Amazon Early Reviewer Program' mentioned on the card actually concluded in 2021", it revealed.

In their latest warning on their website, also sent out to those signed up to their newsletter, the experts found that these letters could lead to phishing attempts, account takeover or refund scams. The postcards sadly look legit. They may have your address on it, it could feature the Amazon logo, and it could contain a popular product people are keen to get their hands on. But it is far from legit and is very dangerous.

But how does it steal your data? Which? explain: "To take advantage of the 'offer', you'll be asked to scan a QR code with your device (using a phone or tablet). In doing so, you will be sent to a website that could be malicious - it may gather your personal information, financial details or even install malware on your device."

As well as this, the postcard instructs people to purchase the product and then email a private Gmail or Outlook email address, thereby potentially giving even more of your information to a scammer.

Amazon has categorically stated that these postcards are not from them. The company further warned: "Scammers that attempt to impersonate Amazon put consumers at risk, and we will continue to invest in protecting consumers and educating the public on scam avoidance.

"We encourage consumers to report suspected scams to us so that we can protect their accounts and refer bad actors to law enforcement to help keep consumers safe. This is not an Amazon offer."

Indications that you might be the target of an Amazon impersonation scam:

• Be wary of urgent requests for details or payment - if you're pressured to act swiftly, such as verifying your bank details due to alleged fraud, it could be a scam.
• Beware of personal information requests - scammers often attempt to coax you into divulging your personal data under false pretences.
• Avoid sending money outside of Amazon - if you're asked to utilise an alternative payment method, consider this a red flag.
• Be cautious of gift card purchases - fraudsters may request you to make a payment using a gift card, which they'll ask you to purchase first and then relay the details to them. Gift cards are frequently used in scams, as the funds are typically spent rapidly and are impossible to retrieve.
• Watch out for unexpected orders - this is referred to as 'brushing' and involves receiving orders you didn't place. Usually, these are illegitimate sellers on Amazon artificially boosting their sales, but there can be other motives behind brushing scams. These scams should be reported to Amazon and the police.

If you fall victim to a scam and lose any money, contact your bank immediately using the number on the back of your bank card. You should also report it to Report Fraud (previously known as Action Fraud), or dial 101 to reach the police if you're in Scotland.