Beware of Fake PayPal Invoice Scams

Online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and PayPal users are now being targeted by a surge in fake invoice schemes. In fact, PayPal was the third most impersonated brand reported in 2023, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Here’s how these scams typically unfold and what steps you can take to protect yourself.

How the Scam Works

1. The Fake Invoice:
   You receive an email that looks like it’s from PayPal. It includes an invoice for a high-value purchase you never made—commonly for cryptocurrency or antivirus software.

2. The Urgent Call to Action:
   The email urges you to call a customer service number provided in the invoice to dispute the transaction.

3. The Scam Unfolds:
   When you call, the "representative" asks for personal or financial details to verify your identity. They might even claim your PayPal account has been compromised to heighten the urgency.

What You Need to Know

• Scammers Exploit Urgency:
  Emails that demand immediate action, like clicking a link or calling a number, are often phishing attempts.

• Convincing Tactics:
  These scams aim to direct you to a fake customer service rep or spoofed website to steal your sensitive information.

• Legitimate-Looking Invoices:
  In some cases, scammers may use PayPal’s own system to send invoices, which appear both in your PayPal account and your email inbox, making them seem more credible.

How to Protect Yourself

• Be Wary of Urgent Messages:
  If an email pressures you to act quickly to resolve an alleged issue with your PayPal account, pause and evaluate it carefully.

• Do Not Engage:
  Avoid clicking on links or calling numbers provided in suspicious emails or invoices.

• Report Suspicious Activity:
  If you encounter a fraudulent invoice, log in to your PayPal account directly through the official website or app. Use PayPal’s verified customer service channels to report the issue.

Stay Vigilant and Informed

Understanding how these scams work is your first line of defense. By staying cautious and knowing the proper steps to take, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim.

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to online safety. Always rely on official sources, like PayPal’s website or app, for account concerns. Stay proactive to safeguard your personal and financial information.