Experts: How to Avoid These 11 Scams Aimed at PayPal Users in AZ

It seems like every time my phone rings, it's a scam caller. They tell me they're getting in touch in order to help me with my "recent car accident", "to get the health coverage I'm entitled to," or to get that "free medical device." I just need to provide them with all my personal information.

These scams aren't new, but wouldn't be circulating if they didn't work. Most of us are onto their game, which is why the charlatans keep changing their methods. If the phone call doesn't work, they try text messages. If that doesn't land, they pivot to good old-fashioned emails.

One of the tricksters' favorite ways to separate us from our money is to use online payment platforms like PayPal. Experts are sounding the alarm on some of the most common scams making the rounds in Arizona right now. There are some tried-and-true oldies on this list, with some new strategies sprinkled in.

Even if you're aware of these, make sure you help your friends and family, especially older adults who might not be very comfortable with technology, stay safe from these smarmy tactics.

READ MORE: Arizona Jury Duty Scam: What You Must Know

How to Stay Safe From These Scams in Arizona

The Government Accounting Office (GAO) has researched some of the most common scams circulating right now. Arizona residents deal with the same online threats as everyone else, but our state’s large military population, retirees, and fast‑growing online‑business community make vigilance especially important.

Experts say you should follow this advice: if something feels rushed, emotional, or “too good to be true,” slow down. Scammers rely on panic and impulse to get your money.

Read: FBI Warns Of Arizona Toll Scams Targeting Residents

Think before you click: don't click on links in unexpected emails or text messages. If you're not sure whether something is real, PayPal advises you to forward suspicious messages to phishing@paypal.com and delete them immediately.

If you sell items online, even in trusted local forums, never issue a refund for an “overpayment” or ship the product until the funds show as completed in your PayPal account.

Here's one more tip: if someone pressures you to pay an upfront fee, donate to an unfamiliar charity, or accept a job involving package reshipping, it could be a red flag. If you want to make a donation, go to the website yourself or call a trusted phone number to be sure you're talking to the right person.

Here's More: Don't Get Scammed! USPS Urgent Warning in AZ

Who Do Scammers Target?

According to the FBI and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), scammers are most likely to target:

• Older adults
• Small‑business owners
• New online sellers
• Military families
• Anyone active on social media or marketplaces

That means anyone could become the victim of one of these scams, even you.

The amount of loss suffered by a victim can vary widely, but payment‑app scams can drain hundreds to thousands of dollars from your account, and the worst part is, the payments you authorize are usually not reimbursed by your bank, PayPal, or certainly not the scammer.

Get our free mobile app

Where Can You Report a Scam?

• PayPal: phishing@paypal.com
• FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
• FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center: ic3.gov