Police issue warning over PayPal scams

HAMPSHIRE Police has issued a warning to residents after almost £4,000 was stolen through PayPal issues in online transactions.

In the course of two weeks, from September 23 to Tuesday, there were 14 reports across Hampshire relating to PayPal issues where money was obtained fraudulently, resulting in losses of more than £3,800.

Unsuspecting buyers had purchased items online and sent money to who they perceived were genuine sellers via PayPal, but then didn’t receive the products they’d purchased.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said: “If you are purchasing items from someone unknown to you and they request payment via PayPal, then please be aware that there is an option to select ‘paying for goods or services’.

“This essentially means that the seller has to pay a nominal fee to receive the money.

“In doing so, this is likely to result in ensuring that the seller is genuine, and is also covered by PayPal’s protection policy – meaning you may be liable to a refund if it has deemed that fraudulent activity has occurred.”

A new phone service has also been developed to combat increasing levels of fraud.

The new number, 159, is being piloted by a range of banks and telephone companies and allows people to contact their participating bank directly if they think they’re being scammed.

Concerned residents are urged to call the new number, 159, if someone contacts them saying they’re from their bank, even if they are not suspicious; if residents receive a call asking them to transfer money or make a payment, even if it seems genuine; or if you receive a call about a financial matter and it seems suspicious.