PayPal Invoice Refund Scam

Scammers send a fake PayPal invoice and push you to call a support number. From there, they escalate to remote control, fake refunds, and pressure to "return" money you never received.

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Primary example

How this scam works

  1. 1

    You receive a fake invoice email 'from PayPal' for a product you never bought, featuring a prominent support number.

  2. 2

    When you call, the scammer claims they can fix it but needs remote access to your computer 'for verification'.

  3. 3

    They ask you to log into your bank, then black out your screen and use developer tools to fake a large refund.

  4. 4

    They pressure you to 'return' the overpayment via gift cards, crypto, or wire. The refund never happened.

✓ Do this

  • Close the email and log in to PayPal directly (don’t use links in the message).
  • Verify invoices inside your PayPal account only.
  • Report the email to abuse@paypal.com.

✗ Avoid this

  • Don’t call numbers in unsolicited emails.
  • Don’t install remote-access tools for strangers.
  • Don’t send money, gift cards, or crypto to 'return' funds.

Quick tip: Verify independently

Don’t call numbers or click links in unexpected messages. Go directly to the company’s official site or app and contact support from there.

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