How to identify fake messages
The likelihood you'll receive a fake message is growing dramatically
#1
most common cybercrime in 20201
241,342
phishing incidents reported in 20201
2X
more frequent incidents in 2020 vs 20191
How to spot a phishing email or text
Generic greetings
Phishing messages often begin with impersonal greetings. “Dear user” or “Hello, PayPal member” are definitely suspect. Messages from PayPal will always use the full name listed in your PayPal account.
Attachments
Attachments can contain malware, so never open them unless you’re 100% sure they’re legitimate.
A sense of urgency
Don’t heed pleas for you to take fast action or warning you of problems that will compromise your account status.2
Fake URL
If the web address is scrambled or looks suspect, don't click on anything and leave.
Asks for sensitive info
Never provide personal, credit card, or account info via email, text, or phone.
Poorly written
Typos, misspellings, and incorrect grammar are common in phishing messages.
Tips for browsing websites
Don’t rely on the “s” in https
One letter used to make a big difference, but now the ”s” doesn’t always mean the site is legitimate because hackers can build encrypted sites, too.
Don’t rely on the padlock symbol
Authentic sites will have this icon in the address bar, but many fake sites do, too.
Type the URL directly yourself
Phishers create fake websites with URLs that are very similar to the real one. To be safe, enter the URL you want to visit manually.
Identifying suspicious emails and websites
This can prove challenging for even the most savvy digital natives. So, we put together a tutorial to help you see the signs.
Tips for recognizing fake phone calls
Never share sensitive info
Account info, passwords, or validation codes are for your eyes and ears only. Even a customer service rep shouldn’t ask for them.
Never trust Caller ID
Scammers can easily fake a Caller ID, so don’t rely on it as confirmation a call is legitimate. Just because it says “PayPal” doesn’t necessarily mean the call is from us.
Never return an automated call
Scammers use automated systems to make voice calls. If an automated call provides a number and asks you to call back, don’t. Only contact PayPal through the Contact page in our Help Center or call PayPal Customer Service at 1-888-221-1161.
Learn more
Read more helpful info about protecting your info from phishing and fakes.
How to do more
This FTC page provides additional ways to report phishing and help fight scammers.
Go to the FTC pageWhat to do if you receive a phishing message
Detect, avoid, report. That’s the best plan to stay secure.
Get our tipsSpotting phishing and other fake messages
There are many signs that can indicate a message may be fake.
Read the articleOur Help Center is always available
Find answers to commonly asked questions and get help with your PayPal account.
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Sign up for free1 U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Internet Crime Report 2020.
2 To confirm your account status or check activity, open the PayPal app or type www.paypal.com into a new browser window and log into your account.