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Life

04th Nov 2016

Paypal users need to be careful of a new scam doing the rounds

Imagine having your account hacked as you're doing your Christmas shopping.

Cathy Donohue

Another day, another hacking scam.

Paypal is an extremely popular method of buying goods online which is why people should heed this warning.

There’s an email purporting to be from PayPal doing the rounds where people have received notices that there has been ‘unusual activity’ spotted on their accounts.

However, this suspicious email contains a link to a fake Paypal log-in where you’re then asked for details, such as password and security questions.

Although the email sounds very official with the message “we’re concerned that someone is using your PayPal account without your knowledge”, it’s a complete scam.

People have posted screen grabs of the fraudulent emails on Twitter in a bid to warn others.

A warning on the PayPal site urges users to look out for ‘phishing’ accounts with the official message reading:

“‘Phishing’ is a form of web forgery designed to steal your identity, usually for financial gain.

“It works by using false pretences to get you to disclose sensitive personal information, like credit and debit card numbers, account passwords, or bank account details.

“One of the most common phishing scams involves sending a fraudulent email that appears to be from a trusted company or brand. This email then directs you to a fake version of a well-known website and records any information you enter, such as your password, financial details and more.

“PayPal is committed to helping shut down these sites and ensure that you’re able to spot phishing immediately. We make it our job to keep your identity as safe as possible, online”.