How do I report a scam payment?
To report a scam payment on the web:
- Go to the Resolution Center.
- Click Report a problem.
- Choose the payment you want to report and click Continue.
- Choose “I want to report a scam.”
- Follow the steps to report the payment.
To report a scam payment on the web:
- Tap Wallet.
- Tap Activity.
- Tap on the payment you want to report.
- Tap Report a Problem.
- Select “I want to report a scam.”
- Follow the steps to report the payment.
What are the 8 types of scam payments you can report to PayPal?
We classify scams into eight main categories, each with its own warning signs. If you recognize any of these patterns in a transaction, you should report it right away.
Item Not Received (INR) Scam
In an INR Scam, the scammer convinces you to pay using PayPal's "Friends & Family" (P2P) option instead of the safer "Goods & Services" method. You send money for items or services that don’t exist, and nothing is delivered.
Key warning signs:
- Prices are much lower than normal
- High-demand items like gaming consoles or smartphones
- Only accepting Friends and Family payments or invoices
- No verifiable details about the seller or the product
Item of Little or No Value Scam
The scammer persuades you to use the Friends and Family payment type for desirable items or services, but then sends products or services that are worth very little, sometimes worthless.
Key warning signs:
- Bargain prices are too good to be true
- Highly desirable products with limited availability
- Avoiding secure payment methods
- Minimal seller information
Imposter Scam
The scammer pretends to be someone trustworthy, such as a friend, family member, business, or government agency, to trick you into sending money.
Key warning signs:
- Unexpected contact claiming to be a known organization
- Urgent or fear-inducing payment requests
- Spoofed caller ID showing fake, credible details
- Stories that don't match known facts
- Requests for small covering fees
Romance Scam
A scammer creates a fake romantic relationship to gain your trust and then invents dramatic scenarios that require you to send money.
Key warning signs:
- Strikingly attractive or perfect profile
- Quick expressions of love and commitment
- Consistent refusal to meet in-person
- Frequent requests for money (emergency or travel)
- Implausible or overly dramatic stories
Refund (Overpayment) Scam
The scammer either:
- Promises a large refund or reward if you pay them first, or
- Overpays you with stolen funds and asks for a refund, leaving you at a loss.
Key warning signs:
- Random strangers offering money
- Fake profiles with unverified stories
- Emotional pressure to send money urgently
Extortion Scam
The scammer demands money by threatening to reveal private or embarrassing information unless you pay.
Key warning signs:
- Unexpected requests for explicit content
- Threatening messages demanding payment
- Contact from unknown individuals
- Requests to delete messages or evidence
Investment Scam
The scammer offers a fraudulent investment promising huge returns with little or no risk.
Key warning signs:
- Guaranteed high returns
- Urgent pressure to invest quickly
- Offers received without solicitation
- Complicated or unclear investment process
- Missing or poor-quality documentation
Other Scam
If your case doesn’t clearly fit into one of the categories above, PayPal may classify it as an “Other Scam.” This includes any unlisted or unclear scam type.
What happens next?
Once you've filed a scam payment, we'll review your case and notify you regarding the next steps.
You can check the status of your case in the Resolution Centre.