Woman hand holding tv remote. (Image: bymuratdeniz via Getty Images)

Nearly 90 million Netflix subscribers across North America are being warned about a new scam text message that could give criminals immediate access to their bank accounts, potentially emptying them within minutes.

If you respond to this alert and enter your details, you could end up paying far more than the $17.99 ad-free subscription package. The text message, posing as an official communication from Netflix, alerts the recipient that their payment has failed or been declined and their account will be suspended unless they update their details immediately.

This ‘Netflix scam’ text could deceive unsuspecting account holders into thinking they’re merely updating their subscription details, but in reality, they are unknowingly giving fraudsters direct, instant access to their financial information. The news emerges as Netflix true crime series ‘so disturbing’ people ‘lose sleep over it’.

Netflix subscribers have been warned about a new text scam (Image: Wachiwit via Getty Images)

The branding and link in the text may seem legitimate, but they are entirely fake. The moment someone clicks through and enters their card details, scammers have everything they need to drain their bank account.

An expert at ProfitDuel warned: “Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and this Netflix scam is one of the most convincing we’ve seen.”, reports the Manchester Evening News.

“The fake emails and texts look identical to genuine Netflix communications, complete with logos, branding, and even official-sounding language.”

Fraudsters are targeting streaming fans with fake payment alerts that look real. (Image: Getty)

The expert warned: “The con begins with a message, either via text, email, or WhatsApp, claiming there’s an issue with your Netflix payment. Common phrases include ‘payment method declined, account suspended, or update required to continue service.”

The expert continued: “The message includes a link that seems to lead to the Netflix website. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice the red flags: suspicious URLs like ‘netflix-billing.co.uk’ or ‘netflix-support-update.com’ instead of the legitimate ‘netflix.com’.

“Once you click on the link, you’re directed to a counterfeit website that looks strikingly real. It prompts you to input your payment details, address, and sometimes even your complete banking information. The moment you press submit, criminals have all they need and within minutes, victims can witness thousands of dollars vanishing from their accounts.

“These fraudsters operate swiftly, executing multiple transactions before you’ve even grasped what’s transpired.”

As the cost of living crunch compels many families to scrutinize their subscriptions closely, people are toggling streaming services on and off more frequently than in the past. Or, with the basic ad-free subscription priced at $17.99, they might assume there were insufficient funds in their account.

This makes the fraudulent messages seem impeccably timed and believable.

Enjoy scam-free Netflix (Image: Maca and Naca via Getty Images)

ProfitDuel cautioned: “The primary warning sign is being asked to update payment details through a link. Always navigate directly to the Netflix app or website.”

Always examine the sender’s email address meticulously. Scam emails often come from addresses like ‘support@netflix-payments.

info’ instead of official Netflix domains.

If you receive a suspicious message, refrain from clicking any links. Instead, open the Netflix app on your device or enter netflix.com directly into your browser to check your account status.

Contact your bank right away to report the fraud and request them to freeze your account.