What exactly is cryptocurrency?

Crypto, short for cryptocurrency, is a form of currency that only exists in the digital space.

Can I buy cryptocurrencies with PayPal?

From 25 June 2026, crypto buys and onboarding will be paused due to regulatory updates. You can still hold and sell crypto. We expect crypto buys to return by end of year. Transaction fees apply. Get more information here.

What’s the nature of this market?

The crypto markets trade 24/7, 365 days a year under normal circumstances. Since all cryptos are global currencies without borders, prices can change every minute of every day.

What should I understand about volatility and risk?

Crypto is considered volatile because of how much, and how quickly, its value can change. There's potential for gains and losses. Keep in mind that we can't protect you from losses as a result of market volatility.

What is a crypto wallet?

A crypto wallet helps you access and manage your crypto. With PayPal, you don’t need to worry about managing a blockchain wallet or private keys. When you "hold" crypto with PayPal "EU", we hold your rights to the crypto through trusted providers. You get a simple way to "hold or sell" crypto in your PayPal account.

Sell and hold Crypto with PayPal

Manage your crypto with PayPal

From 25 June 2026, onboarding and crypto buy functionality will be unavailable in Luxembourg due to regulatory changes. Existing customers may continue to hold and sell their crypto-assets.

Understanding volatility and risk

Crypto¹ is considered volatile because of how much and how quickly its value can change. There is the potential for gains and losses, with the possibility you could lose the entire amount you paid.

Learn More About Risks

Tips to avoid crypto scams

Your transactions are securely encrypted, and your full financial details are never shared.

If you receive a suspicious message, forward it to phishing@paypal.com, then delete it.

PayPal will never ask for personal information such as passwords and security codes.
Secure your digital wallets to keep others from gaining access to your account.
Make sure the website you are visiting is legitimate — watch out for typos, and misspelled words.

Learn more about PayPal Security