Online Purchase Leads to Phishing Email Scam via Webshop
A woman from Reichshof, aged 46, has become the latest victim of a Phishing scam, according to the Circles Police Headquarters Oberbergischer Kreis. The incident occurred over the weekend when she purchased a clothing item on a second-hand online portal.
Shortly after the purchase, she received an email asking her to verify her PayPal account. However, unbeknownst to her, this email was a fraudulent one, disguised as a message from PayPal. The criminals behind the scam managed to deceive her through interactions on a video chat platform, a method commonly used in similar fraud cases involving online video platforms.
After verifying her account, unknown individuals changed her PayPal password and withdrew money from her account. The police are urging all users of online sales portals to only communicate via the online platform and not switch to emails or messenger messages. They also advise against clicking on links in emails or messages that come unsolicited from alleged retailers or service providers.
The official website for the Circles Police Headquarters Oberbergischer Kreis is https://oberbergischer-kreis.polizei.nrw/. For press inquiries related to this incident, please contact the Press Office at [email protected] or call 02261/8199-1212.
The police are reminding the public to remain vigilant and cautious when using online platforms for purchases. Phishing scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and it is essential to protect personal and financial information at all times.
Stay safe, and happy shopping!
