Learn about security

What you should know

It can be hard to know which security threats are lurking or where. Let's help you learn to spot them right away.

Understand scams

Identify fakes

Fraud and identity theft is a reality

5.2
million identity theft and fraud reports were received by the FTC in 2022.1
26 %
of the fraud cases reported money was lost.1
$650
is the median amount lost in the reported cases.1

How PayPal protects you

We leverage various security technologies and actively combat threats.

Purchase protection for buyers

When checking out or using the Goods and Services payment type, you may qualify for Purchase Protection at no cost as the buyer.2

Protection for sellers

Our Seller Protection Policy will protect your online sales, minimize claims, and chargebacks and help prevent merchant fraud.3

Follow these tips to help keep things secure

Make sure you never share sensitive personal or financial details via email, text, direct message, or phone.

Passwords

Never share passwords, PIN, or one-time verification codes. PayPal will never ask for them.

Banking and cards

Keep banking and card information out of the wrong hands, including account numbers, CVV codes, and credit scores.

Identification

Social Security, tax ID, and other government-issued numbers are especially sensitive and should be kept secure.

Personal details

Addresses, birthdates, and family info like mother’s maiden name can help fraudsters guess your passwords or pretend to be you.

Our Help Center is always available

Find answers to commonly asked questions and get help with your PayPal account.

Secure shopping and selling starts with PayPal

Spend, send, and manage your money with confidence.