PayPal Friends & Family Scam – Why It’s Risky | ScamPause
Scammers push ‘Friends & Family’ because it removes protections meant for purchases.
Immediate Answer
This may be a scam if someone is pressuring you to send money via PayPal Friends & Family, especially if it feels urgent, secret, or confusing.
How This Scam Works
Scammers impersonate banks, buyers/sellers, or support teams. They may send fake screenshots, claim a payment is “pending,” or trick you into sending money back. Many payment app transfers are difficult to reverse once sent.
Signs This Is a Scam
- Urgent requests to send money immediately
- Fake confirmations or screenshots
- Requests to ‘refund’ or resend payments
- Pressure to use a specific payment method
- Refusal to use normal, safer options
What To Do Right Now
- Stop sending money and stop communicating with the person
- If this involves an online marketplace, keep all messages in the platform
- Contact your bank or the payment service’s official support through a verified channel
- Change passwords if any accounts were discussed or compromised
- Preserve evidence (screenshots, usernames, phone numbers, emails)
If You Already Sent Money or Information
Report the transfer immediately. Some services may be able to help in limited cases, but many transfers are final. Be cautious of anyone who offers “recovery” for a fee.
How To Protect Yourself Going Forward
Use PayPal Friends & Family only with people you know and trust. Verify requests by calling a known number. If you feel pressured to act fast, pause and get a second opinion.
You Are Not Alone
Scams are designed to exploit trust and urgency. Being targeted does not mean you did something wrong.