How Does Amazon Detect a New Account Created After a Closed One?

Amazon, the global online marketplace, is renowned for its advanced customer verification and security measures. It employs sophisticated techniques to identify and prevent the creation of new accounts by users who attempt to evade detection through the use of new email addresses and payment methods, after a previous account has been closed. This article explores the key methods Amazon uses to track and identify such activities.

IP Address Tracking

One of the primary techniques Amazon uses is tracking the IP address associated with the creation of a new account. IP addresses are unique identifiers for devices connected to the internet, and if a user creates a new account from the same IP address as their previous, closed account, it can raise red flags. Amazon's security team analyzes IP patterns to find connections between different accounts, making it more difficult for users to create multiple accounts.

Device Fingerprinting

Device fingerprinting is another critical method employed by Amazon. This process involves collecting detailed information about the device used to access Amazon's services. This includes the browser type, operating system, and screen resolution. Even if a user tries to clear their cookies, persistent identifiers like device ID and fingerprint can still be used to track them. Amazon uses this information to identify and link accounts to the same user, thus preventing account creation through deception.

Cookies and Browser Data

Tracking mechanisms can still identify returning users even when cookies are cleared. Amazon may use persistent identifiers stored on the user's device. These identifiers help track the user's activity across different sessions and devices, even if the user clears their browser data. By analyzing this data, Amazon can connect previously inactive accounts to new ones, ensuring security and preventing fraud.

Payment Method Analysis

Even if a user changes their payment method, Amazon still has ways to detect similarity in identifying patterns. Billing addresses and credit card issuers can provide valuable information that links different accounts. For instance, if a new account has a billing address similar to the one used in a previous account, or if the same credit card company is used, it can indicate a connection between the accounts. This method helps Amazon identify and clamp down on fraudulent activities.

Behavioral Analysis

Beyond technical means, behavioral analysis is a significant aspect of Amazon's account detection system. User behavior, including browsing patterns, purchase history, and search queries, can reveal patterns and connections between different accounts. If a new account has a purchasing history or browsing behavior that closely mirrors that of a previous account, it can help Amazon flag the new account as potentially fraudulent. This ensures that Amazon's policies are respected and that the platform remains a safe and secure environment for all users.

Account Recovery Information

Another method Amazon uses is scrutinizing account recovery information. If a user attempts to recover a closed account by providing identifying information such as a phone number or previous addresses, it can link the new account to the old one. This further aids in tracking and preventing the creation of new accounts by users attempting to bypass detection.

User-Agent Strings

When accessing Amazon, the user's browser sends a user-agent string containing detailed information about the browser and operating system. By analyzing these strings, Amazon can detect repeated patterns that indicate the same user across different accounts. This method helps in detecting and preventing identity theft and fraud.

Conclusion

Amazon has invested heavily in its account detection system to ensure the security and integrity of its platform. These advanced methods, including IP address tracking, device fingerprinting, payment method analysis, behavioral analysis, and account recovery information, all work together to detect and prevent the creation of new accounts when users attempt to circumvent detection. As technology evolves, so does Amazon's approach to detecting and preventing such activities, ensuring that the platform remains a secure and trusted environment for its users.