Microsoft Cashback Scam Email - How to Protect Yourself

Because Microsoft Cashback (formerly Bing Rebates) is built natively into Windows, the Edge browser, and Bing, many users trigger the service or receive these policy updates without realizing they are enrolled.

However, cybercriminals frequently impersonate Microsoft financial communications. Use the details below to determine if the specific email you received is safe or a trap.

How to Verify Your Cashback Email

Signs Your Email is Legitimate

• Sender Address: It originates from a valid Microsoft domain, such as maccount@microsoft.com.
• No Call to Action: The message simply informs you of policy changes and does not require you to click a link, log in, or provide information.
• No Financial Demands: The message will never ask you to pay a fee or enter credit card information to "claim" your cash.

Red Flags of a Phishing Scam

• Fake Domains: The sender address looks slightly off (e.g., @micros0ft.com, @mail-microsoft.com, or via unrelated third-party servers).
• Urgent Demands: The message claims your cashback balance or your entire Microsoft account will be permanently deleted unless you log in immediately.
• Suspicious Links: Hovering over buttons or hyperlinks reveals URLs that do not point directly to microsoft.com or bing.com.
• Hidden Fees: Any claim that you must pay a processing fee, taxes, or verification charge to unlock a cash rebate.

What to Do Next

• Do Not Click Links: If you want to check your actual rewards or cashback status, do not use the links inside the email. Instead, navigate directly to the official Microsoft Cashback Dashboard.
• Opt-Out if Desired: If you want to stop receiving these program updates, you can safely opt out of the rewards program by visiting the official Microsoft Cashback FAQ Page and using their native unsubscribe settings.
• Report Phishing: If your email contains suspicious external links or asks for personal passwords, use the Report button in Outlook or forward it to Microsoft's abuse team.