There are too many scams nowadays. Even if you think you know enough about these online scams, you can’t be too sure. Some of these scams look too real that you might just fall for one.
PayPal users are not spared from these scams. Heartless scammers are out to hack PayPal accounts. They send a random email that says, your PayPal account has been limited.
Unfortunately, the email looks too real. It comes complete with the PayPal logo and a link for the PayPal user to click on. Once the link is clicked on, the account is compromised.
The PayPal user is taken to a dubious site where he or she ends up sharing personal information. Unfortunately, it ends up in the hands of some crafty scammers who are out to steal.
So, if you are a PayPal user, be careful. Don’t fall for it. Be careful with sharing your personal information and don’t just click on any link that you see in your Inbox.
Part 1. A Close Look at the Phishing Email that says PayPal Account Limited
If you haven’t seen the phishing email that says PayPal Account Limited, then you’re lucky. It just means that the scammers don’t have your email address yet.
Soon they will have it, that’s for sure. Keep in mind these scammers are pretty smart. Truth be told, they’re a lot smarter than most of us. They have ways and means of getting hold of email addresses. Your email address included.
Hence, don’t be too complacent. It’s not impossible for you to receive this particular phishing email that says PayPal Account Limited.
The red flags of a phishing email from PayPal.
#1. It Shows up in Your Inbox
The email, your PayPal account has been limited, shows up in your Inbox. That is what makes it hard to ignore. The scammers are way too smart that they are able to send it straight to the Inbox and not the Spam folder. Make sure to move it immediately to the Spam folder. Then delete it from there.
#2. Tells You to Update Personal information
The body of the email will say that you have to update your personal information to lift the limit on your account. It will also say that it’s for own safety, which makes it very misleading.
Furthermore, the scammers are too smart that they are able to replicate the PayPal logo.
#3. Take Note of the Email Address and Avoid Clicking on the Link
After reading the email, you’re going to wonder about it. It looks very real, with impeccable grammar. Don’t let that fool you. Take your cursor to the top of the email and check the email address of the sender.
You will notice that it was not sent by PayPal. The most important thing to avoid is the Click here tab. Do not click that tab. The only place where you can safely update your personal information is on the PayPal website itself.
Part 2. What to Do If Your PayPal Account Has Been Limited Email Fools You
If you end up clicking the link on the phishing email, do not panic. Although that is easier said than done, you have to stay calm.
Follow the steps below to gain back control of your PayPal account.
- Go to the official website of PayPal to log into your account. Once you’re logged in, click on the gear icon on the top, right-hand side of the screen and click on Profile.
- Change your password immediately. Click on the Change link you see on the far, right-hand side of the screen.
- If, in case, your account has been compromised, call the PayPal Customer Service at +1-402-935-2050. The customer support of PayPal is very accommodating. You can also email them.