Medium riskEmail Scams

Fake Subscription Renewal Email

This scam emails that a subscription is renewing for a large amount, hoping you call a fake support number or click a link to cancel and hand over details.

Quick verdict

Risk level
Medium risk
Scam type
Subscription billing scam
Main red flag
A renewal notice for a costly subscription with a number to call to cancel.
What to do first
Do not call or click. Check the real account or your card statement directly.

What this scam usually looks like

This scam emails that a subscription is renewing for a large amount, hoping you call a fake support number or click a link to cancel and hand over details.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'Your annual antivirus subscription will auto-renew today for $399.99. To cancel or dispute this charge, call our support team at 1-800-XXX-XXXX.'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A renewal notice for a service you do not use or recognise
  • A large charge designed to make you act quickly
  • A phone number urging you to call to cancel or dispute
  • A sender address that does not match the named company
  • A request to confirm card details or install software

What to do

  • Do not call the number or click links in the email
  • Check the real subscription account or your card statement directly
  • Report the email as phishing and delete it
  • Block the sender

If you already clicked or replied

  • Do not install remote-access software for 'support'
  • Hang up if asked for payment or remote control of your device
  • Contact your bank if you shared card details
  • Run a security scan if you downloaded anything

What not to do

  • Do not call the support number provided
  • Do not give remote access to your device
  • Do not share card details to 'cancel' a charge

Similar scams

Medium risk Email

Fake Invoice Email Scam

This scam emails an invoice or receipt for something you did not buy, hoping you call a fake 'support' number or click a link to dispute it.
Medium risk Email

Fake Netflix Payment Email

This scam warns that your Netflix payment failed and your account is on hold, linking to a fake page that steals your login and card details.
High risk Email

Fake Refund Email Scam

This scam emails that you are owed a refund and asks you to confirm bank or card details, or to accept a refund that is really designed to steal your money.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the email list such a high price?
A large charge creates urgency and pushes you to call the number, where a fake agent tries to get remote access, payment, or your details.
Is it safe to call the number to cancel?
No. The number connects to the scammer, not real support. Check the charge through your real account or bank instead.
The agent wants to install software to refund me. Is that normal?
No. Remote-access requests are a scam tactic to control your device and accounts. Refuse and end the call.
How do I confirm a real subscription charge?
Log in to the actual service or check your bank statement directly. If there is no matching charge, the email is fake.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.