Amazon does send text messages, but only for specific account events

Amazon will text you, but only if you have turned on text notifications in your account settings and only for certain types of messages. The most common ones are order updates (shipped, out for delivery, delivered), account alerts (suspicious login attempts, password changes), and two-factor authentication codes when you sign in from a new device. Amazon also texts about returns, refunds, and occasionally promotions if you have opted in.

The catch is that scammers send fake Amazon texts constantly, and they look almost identical to the real ones. A real Amazon text comes from a short code (usually a five or six digit number) or from a number that starts with Amazon's official sender ID. A fake one often comes from a regular phone number or claims you need to click a link to "confirm your account" or "update your payment method." Amazon never asks you to click a link in a text message.

Key Takeaways

  • Real Amazon texts come from a short code or Amazon's official sender ID, never from a regular phone number asking you to click a link.
  • You control whether Amazon texts you by turning notifications on or off in your account settings under "Communication Preferences."
  • If a text claims your account is locked, your payment failed, or you need to verify something urgently, it is almost certainly a scam.
  • Never click links in unsolicited texts claiming to be from Amazon; instead, go directly to Amazon.com or call Amazon's official number to check your account.

How to check what Amazon texts you are supposed to get

Log into your Amazon account on a computer or the Amazon app. Go to "Account" in the top right, then select "Login & security." Scroll down to "Communication preferences" and click "Manage." From there you can see which types of messages Amazon is allowed to send you and turn each one on or off.

The main categories are order and shipping updates, account notifications (like login alerts), and promotional messages. If you have never turned on text notifications, Amazon should not be texting you at all. If you are getting texts and you never turned this on, that is a sign the message is fake.

Real Amazon texts versus scam texts: what to look for

A real Amazon text usually says something straightforward like "Your Amazon order has shipped" or "Your package is out for delivery today." It may include a tracking number or a link to your order page on Amazon.com. Real texts from Amazon do not create panic or pressure you to act immediately.

Scam texts use urgency and fear. They say things like "Your account has been locked," "Confirm your payment method now," "Suspicious activity detected," or "Click here to verify your identity." They often come from a regular 10-digit phone number instead of a short code. They may have slight misspellings or awkward phrasing. If a text is asking you to click a link to fix a problem, it is a scam — Amazon handles account issues through your account page or by calling you, never through a text link.

What to do if you get a suspicious Amazon text

Do not click any links in the text. Do not reply to it. Delete it. If you are worried about your account, go directly to Amazon.com in your web browser, log in, and check your account status yourself. If you see suspicious activity, change your password and turn on two-factor authentication.

If the text claims there is a problem with an order or payment, log into your account and look at your orders and payment methods. Everything will be there if it is real. You can also call Amazon's customer service at 1-888-280-4331 to verify whether the message came from them. Report the scam text to Amazon by forwarding it to 7726 (which spells "SPAM" on a phone keypad) — your carrier will pass it along to Amazon's fraud team.

Why scammers use Amazon texts

Amazon is one of the most trusted companies in the world, so scammers impersonate it because people are more likely to click a link or give information if they think it is from Amazon. A fake text asking you to "verify your payment method" is trying to get you to enter your credit card number, bank details, or login credentials on a fake website that looks like Amazon but is actually controlled by the scammer.

The scammer's goal is usually to steal your login information, your payment methods, or your personal information. Once they have your Amazon login, they can change your password, add their own payment method, and buy things on your dime. If they get your credit card number, they can use it elsewhere or sell it.

How to stop Amazon texts if you do not want them

Go back to your Communication Preferences in your Amazon account (Account > Login & security > Communication preferences > Manage) and turn off the types of texts you do not want. You can turn off order updates, account notifications, or promotional texts individually. You do not have to turn them all off if you only want to stop certain kinds.

Keep in mind that turning off account notifications means you will not get alerted if someone tries to log into your account from a new device, which is a security feature. Most people keep those on and turn off only promotional texts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Amazon text me about a refund?

Yes. If you have order notifications turned on, Amazon will text you when a refund is processed. The text usually includes the order number and the amount. Real refund texts do not ask you to click anything or provide information — they just notify you that the refund is on the way.

What should I do if I clicked a link in a suspicious Amazon text?

Change your Amazon password immediately if you entered your login information. Check your payment methods and orders for any unauthorized activity. If you entered a credit card number, contact your bank or credit card company and let them know. Monitor your account for the next few weeks for charges you did not make.

Does Amazon text you before delivering a package?

Yes, if you have shipping notifications turned on. Amazon usually texts you when your package ships, when it is out for delivery, and when it has been delivered. The text includes a tracking number and a link to your order.

Why did I get an Amazon text when I do not have an account?

You did not — it is a scam. Scammers send fake Amazon texts to random phone numbers hoping someone will click. If you do not have an Amazon account, delete the text and do not respond.

Can I get Amazon texts on my landline?

No. Amazon only sends texts to mobile phone numbers. If you do not have a mobile phone registered to your account, Amazon cannot text you, which is another way to spot a fake message.