Amazon equips Alexa with tool to verify dubious messages

Amazon introduced a verification capability within its Alexa for Shopping assistant that allows customers to query whether a received email, text or phone call was actually sent by the retailer. Users provide the source, timing and content of the message, and the system cross-references Amazon's own communication logs, confirming authenticity only when it has full confidence. When a match is found, Alexa informs the user and may suggest security steps; if no match exists, it directs the user to check orders in the app or contact official support, warning against clicking links.

The feature complements earlier verification methods such as the [email protected] address and a web-based form, and each inquiry is reported to Amazon's customer-protection team to aid in identifying broader scam campaigns. Amazon notes that roughly 360,000 customers annually seek help confirming suspicious messages, highlighting the ongoing prevalence of phishing attempts that exploit the brand's familiarity.