Have you ever received a call or voicemail claiming that someone placed a large order for a PlayStation through Walmart? If yes, then you are not alone. Many people have reported receiving calls about unauthorized purchases of PlayStation 5 consoles, often priced over $900.
These calls usually come from scammers trying to trick you into giving away personal information or money. This type of scam has become more common in recent years. The goal is always the same: to steal your identity or money.
In this blog post, we will walk you through everything you need to know about the Walmart PlayStation scam, how it works, and most importantly, how to protect yourself. We’ll cover real-life cases, signs to watch out for, and steps to take if you believe you’ve been targeted.
Key Takeaways
- The Walmart PlayStation scam involves fake calls or voicemails about an unauthorized purchase of a PlayStation 5.
- Scammers often claim a high-value order was placed using your account or credit card.
- They may ask you to press a number or speak with a representative to cancel the order.
- Always verify such claims directly through official Walmart customer service.
- Never give out personal or financial details over the phone unless you initiated the call.
- Report suspicious activity to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and other relevant authorities.
- Keep your account passwords strong and update them regularly.
- Use two-factor authentication on all online shopping accounts.
- Be cautious of robocalls or automated messages asking for sensitive information.
- Educate your family members, especially seniors, about these types of scams.
What Is the Walmart PlayStation Scam?
The Walmart PlayStation scam is a type of fraud where victims receive unsolicited phone calls or voicemails claiming they have made a large, unauthorized purchase of a PlayStation 5. These messages often sound urgent and realistic, making people panic and act without thinking.
Typically, the caller pretends to be from Walmart and says a charge of around $900 or more has been made to your account. They might mention specific details like the console model or accessories to make the message seem legitimate.
The goal is to scare you into calling back or pressing a number to cancel the order. Once you respond, the scammer tries to extract personal or financial information. These scams often use robocalls or pre-recorded voice messages, which makes them easy to spread across many phone numbers at once.
How Does the Scam Work?
In most cases, the scam starts with a voicemail or live call saying that a PlayStation 5 has been purchased under your name or account. The message may say something like, “This is Carl from Walmart. A preauthorized purchase of a PlayStation 5 Special Edition has been made.”
It will often include a price tag close to $919.45, which sounds precise and believable. Then, the message asks you to press a number or speak to a representative to stop the transaction. If you follow the instructions, you may end up speaking to a scammer who tries to get your personal details.
They might ask for your address, date of birth, or even credit card information to “verify” your identity. Some scammers also try to install malware on your device by asking you to click a link or download an app.
Others simply record your voice response to use later for identity theft. The key tactic is to create urgency and fear to push you into making a quick decision.
Real-Life Examples of the Scam
Many victims have shared their experiences online after falling for the Walmart PlayStation scam. One person described getting a voicemail saying a $919.45 PlayStation 5 order had been placed from their Walmart account.
Another user said they got a call offering to help cancel the order but asked for their Social Security number first. These stories show how convincing and well-planned these scams can be. Some callers use professional-sounding scripts and even hold conversations that mimic real customer service interactions.
Others leave detailed voicemails with fake names and department titles to add credibility. There are also reports of people being redirected to fake websites that look like Walmart’s official site. Once there, they are prompted to enter login details or payment info.
These examples highlight the importance of staying alert and never acting based solely on a phone call or voicemail.
Signs That It Might Be a Scam
There are several red flags to watch for when dealing with unexpected calls about a PlayStation purchase. First, if the call comes out of nowhere and seems urgent, that should raise suspicion. Legitimate companies like Walmart will not demand immediate action without proper verification.
Second, if the caller asks for personal or financial information, that is a major warning sign. Third, be careful if the message includes a request to press a number or call a specific phone line right away.
Fourth, check the caller ID. Often, these scam calls come from unknown or unlisted numbers. Fifth, listen carefully to the language used. Scammers may use vague terms or incorrect details about Walmart policies.
Sixth, if the message mentions a very high amount like $900+, it might be designed to shock you into responding quickly. Seventh, beware of anyone who pressures you to act immediately without giving you time to think or research.
How to Protect Yourself From the Scam
Protecting yourself from the Walmart PlayStation scam starts with awareness and smart habits. First, always be skeptical of unsolicited calls or voicemails, especially those that ask for personal or financial information.
Second, never call back a number left in a voicemail unless you confirm it belongs to the company mentioned. Third, if you receive a message about an order, log in to your account directly through the official website or app to check your orders.
Fourth, enable two-factor authentication on your online shopping accounts. Fifth, keep your passwords secure and change them regularly. Sixth, set up account alerts so you are notified of any new orders or changes. Seventh, use a spam call blocker on your phone to reduce unwanted calls.
Eighth, educate others in your household, especially older adults who may be more vulnerable. Ninth, report any suspicious calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or local law enforcement. Tenth, stay informed about current scams and share what you learn with friends and family.
What to Do If You Fall Victim
If you believe you have already fallen victim to the Walmart PlayStation scam, act quickly. First, contact your bank or credit card provider to report the fraud and request a freeze or cancellation of affected cards. Second, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through IdentityTheft.gov.
Third, place a fraud alert on your credit reports by contacting one of the major credit bureaus—Experian, TransUnion, or Equifax. Fourth, monitor your accounts closely for any unauthorized transactions. Fifth, change all your online account passwords, especially those linked to financial services or shopping sites.
Sixth, consider placing a credit freeze on your files to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. Seventh, inform your contacts and loved ones so they can be on guard as well. Eighth, seek legal advice if necessary, especially if identity theft occurs.
Ninth, document every step you take, including dates, times, and names of representatives you speak with. Lastly, do not feel ashamed. Scammers are skilled at manipulation, and anyone can fall prey.
Why Are These Scams Becoming More Common?
Scams like the Walmart PlayStation scam are becoming more frequent due to several reasons. First, technology makes it easier for scammers to reach thousands of people at once through robocalls and automated messages.
Second, the rise of online shopping means more people have accounts with personal and payment information stored online. Third, many consumers are not aware of the latest scam tactics and how to spot them.
Fourth, the anonymity provided by the internet allows criminals to operate from anywhere without fear of being caught. Fifth, the pandemic increased reliance on digital communication, making people more comfortable receiving important messages over the phone or email.
Sixth, some scammers target vulnerable groups, such as the elderly or those less tech-savvy. Seventh, social engineering techniques have become more advanced, making it harder to distinguish real from fake communications.
Eighth, the fast pace of modern life means people often react quickly without verifying details. Lastly, financial incentives drive these scams, as stolen data can be sold or used for further fraud.
How Walmart Is Responding to These Scams
Walmart has taken steps to combat scams and protect its customers. The company has issued public warnings about fake calls and advises shoppers to be cautious of unsolicited messages. Walmart encourages customers to contact them directly through verified channels if they suspect fraudulent activity.
The company also provides resources on its website to help users recognize phishing attempts and fake orders. In the past, Walmart updated its policies to close loopholes that scammers exploited, such as price-matching abuse.
Additionally, Walmart works with law enforcement agencies to track down and prosecute individuals involved in fraudulent activities. The company continues to invest in cybersecurity measures to safeguard customer data and prevent unauthorized access.
However, no system is perfect, and consumers must remain vigilant. Walmart recommends that users enable account notifications, review orders regularly, and report any suspicious behavior immediately. By working together, both Walmart and its customers can reduce the impact of these scams.
Reporting the Scam and Seeking Help
If you receive a suspicious call related to the Walmart PlayStation scam, it is important to report it. Start by filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. You can also contact your state attorney general’s office to report consumer fraud.
If you believe your identity has been stolen, visit IdentityTheft.gov for guidance on recovery steps. Your bank or credit card company should be notified immediately if any unauthorized charges occurred. Consider reaching out to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to share your experience and warn others.
If possible, provide details like the phone number, time of the call, and any names or IDs given by the scammer. Sharing your story on social media or community forums can also help raise awareness.
Many people have found support through online communities where victims discuss similar experiences and offer advice. Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek emotional support if the experience was stressful or upsetting.
Final Thoughts on Staying Safe Online
Staying safe from scams like the Walmart PlayStation scam requires a mix of awareness, caution, and proactive habits. Always question unexpected calls or messages, even if they seem official. Remember, no legitimate company will pressure you to act immediately without allowing time to verify.
Keep your devices updated with the latest security software and avoid clicking on unknown links. Talk to friends and family about common scams so everyone stays informed. Teach children and teens about online safety and the risks of sharing personal information.
Regularly review your bank and shopping statements to catch any unusual activity early. Set up automatic alerts for account logins and purchases if available.
Most importantly, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. Taking small steps now can save you from big problems later. Being prepared and informed is your best defense against online fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I get a call about a PlayStation order from Walmart?
Hang up immediately and do not follow any instructions given during the call. Check your Walmart account directly through the official website or app to verify orders.
How can I tell if a call is part of the Walmart PlayStation scam?
Look for red flags like urgent language, requests for personal information, unfamiliar phone numbers, and offers that seem too good to be true.
Can I report scam calls to Walmart?
Yes, you can report suspicious calls to Walmart through their official website or by contacting customer service directly using verified contact methods.
Has Walmart confirmed this scam?
Yes, multiple sources have reported on this scam, and Walmart has issued advisories urging customers to be cautious of fake calls and voicemails.
Will Walmart ever call me about an order?
Walmart may contact you regarding an order, but they will never ask for personal or financial information over the phone without proper verification.
How do I block scam calls?
Use built-in phone features or third-party apps that identify and block spam calls. You can also register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry.
What if I gave my information to a scammer?
Contact your bank or credit card provider immediately, report the incident to the FTC, and monitor your accounts for unauthorized activity.
Are there fake Walmart websites linked to this scam?
Yes, some scammers create fake websites that mimic Walmart’s official site to collect login or payment details. Always double-check the URL before entering any information.
How can I check my Walmart orders safely?
Log in to your Walmart account through the official website or mobile app to view your order history and status.
