PayPal is an online payment platform for sending and receiving money in different currencies. Because it deals with money and user accounts, it’s often targeted by scammers.
To prevent PayPal scams, always be alert and never share personal or banking information if requested by email.
PayPal works hard to keep users safe, but it’s important to be cautious. Even if you’ve never been scammed, you should know the most common scams, how to spot them, and how to avoid them. Here are some suspicious situations to watch out for:
-Identity theft (phishing): Scammers send emails pretending to be PayPal, claiming there’s a problem with your account or suspicious activity. They include a link to a fake site that looks like PayPal to steal your data. Remember, PayPal will never ask for personal info by email. Always check the sender’s address and don’t click suspicious links.
-Sending money as friends and family: Only use this option with people you trust. Scammers may ask for payment this way to avoid fees, but if you’re scammed, PayPal can’t help you. Always pay as a business transaction for purchases.
-Advance payment scams: You’re offered a large sum of money but must pay a fee first via PayPal (e.g., inheritance, prize, or other excuses). Never pay without verifying who’s behind the offer.
-Fake PayPal issues: If you get an email saying your account has a problem or will be closed unless you log in, be suspicious. Don’t log in through links in emails—PayPal never asks for info this way.
-Overpayment scams: If a buyer claims to have overpaid and asks for a refund to a different account, be careful. Check your PayPal account for real payments. If in doubt, cancel the transaction and ask them to pay again. Never send products or money without verifying everything.
There are many ways to scam on PayPal. Always check the sender’s email—PayPal’s official domain is @paypal.com. If it’s different, it’s a scam.
