PayPal Account Limited Email Scam UK
A genuine PayPal email addresses you by the full name listed on your account, not 'Dear PayPal user'.
What a fake PayPal 'account limited' email looks like
This scam is an email designed to look like it's from PayPal, claiming your account has been limited and needs urgent verification. An example of the style: Your account has been limited due to unusual activity. Verify your details within 24 hours to restore full access. It usually includes a link to a page built to look like PayPal's genuine login.
Why these emails are convincing
PayPal genuinely can limit accounts, so the concept itself isn't unusual. The urgency and threat of losing account access pushes people to click before checking carefully.
Signs a PayPal email is a scam
- It's addressed to 'Dear PayPal user' or similar, rather than the full name listed on your account.
- It asks you to click a link and enter your card, bank, or login details.
- It creates urgency with a short deadline to 'verify' your account.
- The link, when you hover over it, doesn't go to paypal.com.
How the scam works step by step
First, an email claims your account is limited and needs urgent action. Second, a link opens a page built to look like PayPal's genuine login or verification screen. Third, whatever you enter — login details, card number, or bank details — is captured. Fourth, the criminal can access your real PayPal account or use the payment details elsewhere.
How to check a PayPal email is genuine
Don't click the link. Log into PayPal directly through the app or by typing paypal.com yourself, and check the Resolution Centre there for any genuine account issue.
- Genuine PayPal emails address you by the full name listed on your PayPal account, or your business name.
- If there's a real limitation on your account, it will show up when you log in directly. You don't need to act on the email itself.
If you've already entered your details
Log into PayPal directly and change your password immediately. Check your account for any transactions or changes you don't recognise, and contact your bank if you entered card or bank details.
How to report a fake PayPal email (UK)
Forward it to PayPal at phishing@paypal.com. If you've lost money, also report it to Report Fraud at reportfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040 if you're in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland. In Scotland, report to Police Scotland on 101.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell a genuine PayPal email from a fake one?
A genuine PayPal email addresses you by the full name listed on your account, not 'Dear PayPal user'. If in doubt, log into PayPal directly rather than clicking any link.
I entered my PayPal login details on a fake page. What should I do?
Log into PayPal directly through the app or by typing paypal.com yourself, change your password immediately, and check for any unfamiliar transactions.
Does PayPal have an email address for reporting phishing?
Yes. Forward suspicious emails to phishing@paypal.com.
Why might my real PayPal account actually be limited?
PayPal can limit an account for security, policy, or account-review reasons. Check the Resolution Centre by logging in directly to see any genuine issue.
How do I report a fake PayPal email in the UK?
Forward it to phishing@paypal.com. If you've lost money, also report it to Report Fraud at reportfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040 (Police Scotland on 101 in Scotland).