Amazon Prime Day Starts Today: How to Protect Yourself from Discount Traps

Amazon kicks off Prime Day 2025 on July 8 – a four-day discount event with numerous special offers. But the bargain hunt can be deceptive. Consumer advocates warn of misleading discounts, artificially created urgency, and hidden costs.

Fake Discounts and Price Trends

A common trick: Prices are increased shortly before Prime Day, only to then feign large discounts. According to EU law, discounts must be based on the lowest price of the last 30 days – but this is difficult to verify. Tools like Geizhals or browser extensions like Keepa help compare real price trends.

Lightning Deals and Psychological Pressure

Especially with time-limited or quantity-limited lightning deals, artificial purchase pressure arises. "Don't let yourself be stressed by countdowns and limited quantities," warns Elisabeth Barth from the Consumer Information Association. Instead of letting short-term discounts pressure you, set up price alerts or use wish lists. This way, you keep track and are informed as soon as your desired product actually becomes cheaper – independent of Prime Day.

Dangers from Phishing and Fake Sites

Cybercriminals use Prime Day to spread fake Amazon sites. According to security firm Check Point, over 1,000 fraudulent domains were registered in June 2024 alone. Phishing emails and fake calls are also on the rise. Therefore, the rule is: Only shop through official Amazon sites, avoid suspicious links.

Subscription Traps and Return Policies

The Prime subscription is a prerequisite for many offers. Those who forget to cancel the trial period end up paying. For returns, you should use the 14-day statutory right of withdrawal. Amazon can also define stricter return conditions, such as original packaging for tech products.

AI-Generated Offers and Personalized Advertising

A new trend on Prime Day 2025 is the increased use of artificial intelligence by retailers. Many product offers and discounts are now personalized using AI. This means: Depending on your search behavior, previous purchases, and interests, you will be shown different offers than other users. As a result, prices and discounts may vary individually. Therefore, use different devices or browsers to compare offers, and regularly delete cookies to get a more objective price overview.

Warranty and Extended Services

In addition to the statutory right of withdrawal, many manufacturers offer additional warranties or service packages, such as extended return periods or repair services. Check before purchasing whether such services are available for your desired product, and keep the corresponding proofs.

Alternative Shops and Regional Providers

Other retailers also hold their own discount promotions around Prime Day. Comparing these offers is often worthwhile, as they compete with Amazon and sometimes offer even better conditions. Many regional companies also sell their products through Amazon to achieve greater reach. However, they must pay sales fees between 7% and 20% per item and often monthly base fees to Amazon. These costs are often reflected in the final price.

If you order directly from the regional provider – for example, through their own webshop or in-store – you often save money and support the company more directly, as it receives the full margin. This way, both sides benefit: you usually get a better price, and the retailer saves high platform fees, which in turn strengthens the local economy.

Also: Avoid Returns

Prime Day tempts impulse purchases, leading to high return rates. Keep in mind: Every return causes CO₂ emissions and burdens the environment. Consider before buying whether you really need the product and inform yourself about the manufacturer's environmental balance. Many platforms now offer filters for sustainable products.

Conclusion: Price comparison, common sense, and critical reading of reviews protect against Prime Day mispurchases.

Info: Amazon Founder Jeff Bezos

Jeff Bezos is not only constantly in the headlines as the founder of Amazon and one of the richest people in the world – his glamorous wedding in Venice recently also attracted worldwide attention. While the media reported on the prominent guests and the spectacular setting, Prime Day runs in parallel, further increasing Bezos' wealth. With every record sales on Prime Day, Bezos benefits directly, as he remains closely connected to the company as a major shareholder. This shows how closely private events and business success are intertwined for personalities like Bezos – while celebrations take place in Venice, the cash registers at Amazon are ringing.

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.