Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

PayPal Email Scam PDF Invoices
PayPal Email Scam PDF Invoices

A PayPal email PDF scam typically involves a fake invoice or "order confirmation" sent via email, aiming to trick you into calling a bogus support number listed in the attached PDF to "reverse" a fake transaction. These emails use scare tactics about unauthorized charges to steal personal information or payment details.

How to Spot the Scam

  • Suspicious Sender: The email address does not end with "@paypal.com" or uses a generic, public domain like Gmail.
  • Attached PDF: The scam centers on opening a document that mimics a professional, branded invoice.
  • Urgency & Phony Number: The PDF instructs you to call a support line immediately to cancel the payment, which connects you directly to scammers.
  • Generic Greeting: Emails often use "Dear User" or your email address instead of your actual name.

What to Do

  • Do Not Call: Never call the phone number listed in the PDF.
  • Check Your Account: Log in directly via the official PayPal website or app to verify transactions, not through the email links.
  • Forward to PayPal: Forward the suspicious email to phishing@paypal.com.
  • Delete & Block: Block the sender and delete the email permanently.
  • Scan for Malware: If you opened the PDF, run a scan with reputable antivirus software to ensure no malware was installed.
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