Beware the FAKE American Express Chargeback Payment Scam Emails
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
Have you received an email that seems to be from American Express, saying a chargeback payment has been issued to your account? This scam email is designed to steal your personal information. Here’s what you need to know about this phishing scam.
Overview of the Scam
This phishing scam starts with an email that appears to come from American Express. The subject line says something like “The chargeback has been successfully adjusted.”
The email states that a chargeback payment of a specific dollar amount, usually around $1,000, has been issued to your American Express account. It instructs you to click on a link to view the status of the chargeback and validate the payment.
Here is how the scam email might look:
Subject: The chargeback has been successfully adjusted Dear Card Member,
ChargeBack Payment Received ChargeBack Claim Payment Posted To Your Account We have adjusted your payment options to reflect amount of $1218.16 to your card account Follow the prompt below to view chargeback status..
View Chargeback Status
Payment will be posted into your account within 24 hours after validation. This notice has been generated electronically for [edited]Thank you for your Card Membership, American Express Customer Care.
If you click this link, you are taken to a fake American Express website. The site asks you to enter your American Express username and password to log in. It may also request your card number, expiration date, CVV code, and other sensitive details.
In reality, this is a scam operated by cybercriminals. They are phishing for your American Express login credentials and payment card information. The chargeback payment does not exist. Any details you enter will be stolen by scammers.
This seamless phishing scam fools many recipients. The email appears legitimate, mentioning “Dear Card Member” and using American Express branding. The message about a chargeback payment seems plausible. Even the fake login page looks convincing.
But sharing your information will give scammers full access to your account and enable them to make fraudulent charges. This scam aims to steal your money and identity.
How the American Express Chargeback Scam Works
Here is a step-by-step explanation of how the American Express chargeback phishing scam operates:
1. You Receive the Phishing Email
The scam starts with an email sent to your inbox. The sender name, email address, and subject line are designed to seem like official American Express communications.
Common subject lines include:
The chargeback has been successfully adjusted
Chargeback Claim Payment Posted To Your Account
Your American Express Chargeback Payment is Ready
The email body states that a chargeback payment, usually for an amount like $1,218.16, has been issued to your account. It instructs you to click a link to validate the payment status. Phrases like “Follow the prompt below to view chargeback status” urge you to take action.
The email may include some personal details like your name, partial card number, or the last 4 digits of your account number. This makes the message seem more legitimate.
2. You Click the Link to the Fake Website
When you click the link, you are taken to a website designed to mimic the real American Express login page. The URL may look convincing at first glance.
But on closer inspection, the web address does not actually belong to American Express. Common fake URLs used in this scam include:
canupdownup.es/americanexpress/index.html
americanexpress-usa.com/login
americanexpresslogin.com
The site has American Express branding and logos. There is a form asking you to enter your username, password, and sometimes other sensitive card details.
3. You Enter Your American Express Login Details
Trusting that the site is real, you enter your American Express username and password into the form.
In some cases, you may also be asked to provide:
Card number
Expiration date
CVV security code
Billing address
Phone number
Social Security Number
You click “Submit” or “Continue” to view the status of your chargeback payment.
4. Scammers Steal Your Information
Behind the scenes, scammers are harvesting all the data you entered. They now have your American Express username and password, plus any other sensitive details.
The chargeback payment does not actually exist. The “status” page is just another fake screen.
With your credentials, scammers can now access your real American Express account. They can view your personal information, transaction history, and card balance.
5. Scammers Use Your Details for Fraud
Armed with your payment card data, scammers can make unauthorized purchases or drain your bank account. They may rack up charges on your American Express card or other linked payment cards.
They can also commit identity theft using your personal details like date of birth, Social Security Number, etc.
Meanwhile, you may be completely unaware as you wait for the chargeback payment that will never appear. By the time you realize it’s a scam, the damage may already be done.
This simple but effective phishing technique allows scammers to steal thousands of peoples’ personal information. Many victims end up losing substantial sums of money to fraud.
What to Do If You Fell for the Scam
If you entered your details into a fake American Express site, here are important steps to take right away:
1. Change Your American Express Password
First, log into your real American Express account and change your password immediately. Pick a new password that is unique and hard to guess. This prevents scammers from accessing your account with the compromised password.
2. Check Your Account for Suspicious Activity
Carefully review your recent transactions, statements, and balance. Look for any unfamiliar charges, withdrawals, or account changes. Watch out for small charges, as scammers often test stolen card data with small amounts first.
3. Report Unauthorized Transactions
If you see any fraudulent activity, report it to American Express right away. Call the number on the back of your card. Ask them to reverse the unauthorized charges.
4. Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Reports
Contact one of the three credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit file. This makes it harder for someone to open new accounts in your name.
Equifax: 800-525-6285
Experian: 888-397-3742
TransUnion: 800-680-7289
5. Monitor Your Accounts Closely
Keep checking your American Express account frequently for any new unauthorized charges. Also monitor your bank accounts and other credit cards linked to your American Express account.
6. Change Linked Account Passwords
If scammers have your American Express login, they may also try using the same password for linked financial accounts. Change the passwords on all of your other sensitive accounts as a precaution.
7. Consider a Credit Freeze
Putting a credit freeze on your credit reports restricts access to your credit file. This makes it nearly impossible for scammers to open new accounts in your name. It costs around $10 per bureau.
8. Watch Out for Other Phishing Attempts
Scammers who succeed once will likely try again. Be vigilant about any calls, emails, or texts asking for your personal information. Ignore suspicious links and attachments.
9. File a Police Report
File a report with your local police department about the fraud. This creates an official record in case your stolen information is used for further crimes.
By quickly taking these steps, you can limit the damage from this scam. But it’s critical to act fast before scammers have time to misuse your personal and financial details.
Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan
Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free — one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.
The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:
Adware — the cause of those annoying pop-ups
Browser hijackers — unwanted redirects and changed homepages
Trojans and spyware — hidden programs stealing your data
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) — software you never asked for
👉 Select your device below — Windows, Mac, or Android — then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows — and it’s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows from the official source. The free version is all you need — it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.
(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)
Install Malwarebytes
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the MBSetup file. If Windows shows a User Account Control pop-up, click “Yes” to allow the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:
Choose where you’re installing the program — “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” — then click Next.
Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.
When installation is complete, the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen will open automatically.
On the final screen, click Open Malwarebytes to launch the program.
Enable “Scan for Rootkits”
Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the Settings gear icon on the left side of the screen.
In the settings menu, find “Scan for rootkits” and click the toggle so it turns blue.
Done? Click “Dashboard” in the left pane to return to the main screen.
Start the Scan
Click the blue Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found — malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all of them at once.
Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.
Restart Your Computer
Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click Yes. Once you’re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.
When the scan finishes, click Quarantine to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That’s it — your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss — adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it’s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Mac.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The Malwarebytes for Mac Installer will guide you through a few quick screens. Click “Continue” and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.
When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click “Get started“.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”
Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you’re installing it on. Click either Personal Computer or Work Computer, whichever applies.
Start the Scan
Click the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the threats at once.
Restart Your Mac
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot — if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you’re logged back in, your Mac is clean.
Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
After the scan, tap Remove Selected to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean — no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button — so blocking them at the source is your best defense.
We recommend AdGuard, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.
Frequently Asked Questions About the American Express Chargeback Scam
1. What is the American Express chargeback scam?
The American Express chargeback scam is a phishing scam where you receive a fake email claiming a chargeback payment has been issued to your American Express account. The email provides a link to “validate” the payment, but it actually takes you to a fake login page designed to steal your username, password, and personal details.
2. How does the American Express chargeback scam work?
You get an email that looks like it is from American Express saying a chargeback payment of around $1,000 has been made to your account. It provides a link to view the status and confirm the payment. The link goes to a convincing but fake American Express login page asking for your username, password, card number, CVV, etc. Scammers then steal this information to access your real account and commit fraud.
3. What does the fake American Express chargeback email look like?
The scam email has a subject line like “Your American Express Chargeback Payment is Ready” or “Chargeback Claim Payment Adjusted.” The sender name, email address, and branding appear to be from American Express. The email body mentions a specific chargeback payment amount that has been issued to your account and urges you to click a link to validate the payment status.
4. How can I tell if an American Express chargeback email is fake?
Scrutinize the sender name and email address to see if they match exact American Express contacts. Hover over links to check the URL before clicking. Call American Express to confirm if a chargeback was actually filed on your account. Never click links or enter details into sites you’re not 100% sure are legitimate.
5. What happens if I enter my information into the fake American Express site?
Scammers will steal your American Express username, password, card number, CVV code, and any other details you entered. They can then access your real account to commit fraud or make unauthorized transactions. They may also commit identity theft.
6. What should I do if I fell for the American Express chargeback scam?
If you entered details into a fake site, take actions like changing your American Express password, checking your account for fraudulent charges, placing a fraud alert on your credit, and filing a police report right away. This can help limit the potential damage from the stolen information.
7. How can I protect myself from the American Express chargeback scam?
Avoid clicking links or entering details into any site you’re not 100% confident is real. Use updated antivirus software. Check sender addresses on emails carefully. Call American Express to verify any supposed chargebacks. Implement two-factor authentication. Be vigilant about phishing attempts.
8. How common is the fake American Express chargeback scam?
This scam has surged in popularity recently, affecting thousands of American Express customers. The realistic emails and websites make the scam highly effective for stealing personal information. Anyone with an American Express account could potentially fall victim to this phishing tactic.
9. What is American Express doing to combat this scam?
American Express warns customers about this scam on its security center and through account communications. They advise customers to be on high alert for phishing attempts and provide tips for identifying fake emails or websites. However, many phishing scams still manage to evade detection.
10. How can I report fake American Express chargeback emails or sites?
If you receive a suspicious email that claims to be from American Express, you can forward it to phishing@aexp.com. Report fake websites or login pages to American Express at 800-528-4800 so they can attempt to get the sites shut down. You can also report phishing scams to the FTC.
The Bottom Line
This American Express chargeback phishing scam is deceivingly convincing. Through fake emails and websites, scammers trick unsuspecting victims into handing over valuable personal data.
If you receive an email about an American Express chargeback payment, scrutinize it carefully. Check the sender address and links before clicking. Never enter your details into any site you are not 100% sure is legitimate.
Be proactive about monitoring your accounts and credit reports. If you do fall prey to this scam, take immediate action to protect yourself from fraud. But staying alert and avoiding suspicious links in the first place is the best way to keep your identity and money safe.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
