How scammers target PayPal
users and how you can stay safe
What are some common ploys
targeting PayPal users? Here’s what you should watch out for when using the
popular payment service.
By Amer Owaida
PayPal is one of the key players in the field of online payment providers, operating as a payment processor for popular online marketplaces, auction websites, as well as other commercial sellers. Popular brands such as Microsoft, Google Play, PlayStation Store, and Ikea are among the vendors that offer payment through the platform.
With 361 million active registered users, who make around 40 payment transactions per active account over a 12-month period, it’s also hugely popular. However, its users are also often targeted by various cybercriminals and scammers looking to make a quick buck.
The usual
suspects
For one thing, the payment solution is consistently among the most-spoofed brands used in various phishing attacks. Fake websites impersonating PayPal are a hugely popular tactic utilized by cybercriminals. For example, the attackers send a spam email alerting the recipients to unusual activity on their (purported) account, urging them to quickly secure it. The email includes an embedded link that redirects the potential victim to a copycat PayPal website.