Electronic communications consumer protection draft consulted by the Commission

Fraudulent Calls Pretending to Be from PayPal: A Warning from the Consumer Protection Center Saxony

In recent weeks, there have been reports of fraudulent calls across the nation, allegedly originating from the online payment service PayPal. However, it's important to note that these calls are not legitimate communications from PayPal.

The calls, which often come with a suppressed number, feature a female computer voice that urges consumers to disclose sensitive personal information, such as their PayPal PIN. The voice claims that a planned transfer of 500 euros could not be executed, and requests additional data beyond the PayPal PIN.

These calls are believed to be fraudulent and intended for identity and data theft. The alleged fraud cases in the name of PayPal mainly originate from phishing attacks, cybercriminal activities such as credential stuffing, and scams pretending to be PayPal sent from unknown or malicious origins.

It's crucial for users to remain vigilant and not enter the requested numbers in response to these fraudulent calls. The actual data breaches often come from malware or other platforms rather than PayPal itself.

The Consumer Protection Center Saxony has issued a warning about these calls, urging consumers to be aware and cautious. If you receive such a call, it's recommended to hang up and report the incident to your local authorities.

PayPal, as an online service that allows for quick money transfers, such as to friends or for online purchases, values the security of its users. If you have any concerns about your account or suspect fraudulent activity, it's always best to contact PayPal directly through their official channels for assistance.

Stay safe and secure online by being informed and cautious about potential scams. Remember, PayPal will never ask for your sensitive information over the phone.