Fake PayPal Payment Email Scams

Last updated: 2026-06-01

PayPal-themed scams use invoices, 'payment received' alerts, or account-limit warnings to make you log in on a fake page or call a fake support line.

Common red flags

'Account limited' or 'unusual activity' pressure emails
Invoices or payments you do not recognise
A link to resolve an issue instead of the official site
A support number inside the email to call
Sender domains that are not the official PayPal domain

Safe next steps

Open PayPal by typing the address yourself and check notifications
Never call a number from inside an email
Forward suspicious PayPal emails to PayPal's official abuse address
Enable two-factor authentication in your account

What not to do

Click 'resolve' links in the email
Pay or confirm card details from an email
Call the number in the message

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PhishingPhishing is when a scammer pretends to be a trusted person or organisation to trick you into revealing passwords, codes, or financial details, or into clicking a malicious link.Brand impersonationScammers copy a trusted brand's name, look, and tone to make fake messages seem real.

Related red flags

Frequently asked questions

Is this kind of message always a scam?

Not always, but the warning signs above mean you should stop and verify through official channels before doing anything. When several signs appear together, treat it as a scam.

What should I do if I already responded?

If you shared details or paid, act quickly: contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any passwords you entered, and save evidence. See our recovery guides.

Educational guidance only, not legal or financial advice. Examples are paraphrased and simplified.