Attention, PayPal users: New phishing emails put your accounts at risk!

Attention, PayPal users: New phishing emails put your accounts at risk!

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting PayPal users by sending fake emails that trick recipients into revealing their sensitive information. A current warning from [5min] reports phishing messages that contain, among other things, messages such as “Logging in to your PayPal profile with an unrecognized device.” Such messages can unsettle users and lead them into the trap of fraudsters.

These phishing emails usually contain a link to a fake website that looks like the real PayPal site. When recipients enter their login information, fraudsters obtain the information that allows them to access the PayPal account. The consumer advice center has warned of such a fraudulent email with the subject “PayPal: Important Notice,” which asks recipients to provide personal information for alleged PSD2 verification. The aim of this verification is supposedly to prevent misuse and ensure correct customer data, but this is just a pretext for the criminals. Looking at the sender address and using poor grammar are indications of attempted fraud, according to t3n.

How to recognize phishing attempts

There are a few simple tips to help you recognize phishing attempts. First, check the sender of the message and be alert for linguistic errors. Pay particular attention to the sender's email address, which has often been minimally changed. A common sign is that the internet address does not match PayPal's official domain.

If a phishing attempt is suspected, immediate action should be taken: the password should be changed immediately, and if there are problems with the login, it is advisable to contact PayPal customer service. Additionally, the account should be regularly monitored for suspicious activity. According to the current situation review by [t3n], cybercrime in Germany has increased in recent years, particularly in cases committed abroad.

The impact of cybercrime

In its Cybersecurity Monitor 2024, the [BSI] states that 24% of those surveyed have already been victims of cybercrime. Even if this proportion has decreased slightly compared to the previous year, the threat remains real. What is particularly worrying is that one in ten respondents has suffered an online crime in the last twelve months. The most common fraudulent activities are online banking fraud, identity theft and phishing.

The consequences for those affected are serious: 30% report a loss of trust in online services, while 26% have suffered financial damage. Despite growing awareness and the use of protective measures, the proportion of careless users, especially among young people, appears to be increasing. This is shown by the fact that 29% of those surveyed said they felt safe and did not use any protective measures. One in four people find security measures too complicated.

Attempts at manipulation by cybercriminals are increasing and should be a serious warning signal for all users of online services, especially PayPal accounts. Consumers must actively address the risks and ensure they protect their personal information.

Further information on current threats and recommendations for action can be found in the warning messages from [5min] and [t3n], as well as in the [BSI] cybersecurity monitor.