Weird text message

[Chianawicca]

Hi, had a message saying I've paid someone who I don't recognise. It doesn't show on my PayPal account. It asked me to click a link if I don't recognise it. (paypal-secure.ref79.com). Is this a phishing scam

[kernowlass · Accepted solution]

@Chianawicca

If its a spoof, DO NOT USE ANY LINK.

Firstly if the email/ text addressed you as ''Dear Member'' / ''Customer'' / ''Client'' OR your ''email address'' then that confirms its a spoof as paypal would address you by your full name eg Dear John Smith.

Secondly if there was a link OR attachment in that email link to ''cancel'' any transaction or ''confirm'' any details then again it would be a spoof.

If there was a problem with your account Paypal would not ask you to click on an unsafe link in an email or by downloading an attachment, they would direct you to log in normally and go to the resolution or the message centre for more information.

More info here >>
https://www.paypal.com/uk/webapps/mpp/phishing
https://www.paypal.com/uk/smarthelp/article/how-would-i-spot-fake-emails-faq2340

[Chianawicca]

Thank you I thought it was dodgy, I never click anything without checking. It didn't state my name at all. You can see how people get caught out tho 🙂