Residents in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are being targeted by a sneaky new PayPal scam. At first, an unexpected payment in your PayPal account might seem like a bonus. But don’t be fooled – this is a crafty con designed to rip you off.
How the Scam Works
Fraudsters use stolen accounts to send you money, then quickly ask for a refund. While you think you’re doing the right thing, the original payment is reversed by PayPal, leaving you out of pocket. Warning: Never return, spend, or withdraw unexpected PayPal payments.
What To Do If You Spot This Scam
- Report the suspicious payment immediately through the PayPal Resolution Centre.
- Tell your friends and family – share this warning and get them to sign up for their own alerts via Hampshire Alert.
Other Crime Reporting Advice
Remember, Hampshire Alerts is for warnings only and not a crime reporting tool. If you’ve fallen victim to fraud, report it directly to Report Fraud:
- Phone: 0300 123 2040
- Online: reportfraud.police.uk
If a crime is happening now, or you fear for safety, call 999 immediately. For non-urgent crime reports, visit the Hampshire police site: how to report a crime.
Stay Safe – Report Scams and Suspicious Contact
- Send phishing emails to [email protected].
- Forward scam texts or phone numbers to 7726 or your phone provider.
- Report crimes anonymously via Crimestoppers or call 0800 555 111.
If you’ve been a victim of crime, get free, confidential help from the Victim Care Hub or call 0808 178 1641.
