eBay fraud alert; We Invite You To Join Us As A PowerSeller !

[caffn8me]

In the last few weeks I have received about a dozen "invitations to become an eBay power seller". I've worked in network and internet security for years and I'm naturally suspicious of any email like this. I have also never sold anything on eBay, only bought and of course closer examination reveals that the emails are an attempt to get me to enter my eBay username and password into a spoof but realistic looking website.

These recent emails all originate from Romania. Over the past few months I've had numerous others asking me to verify my PayPal details or telling me that someone whose name I have never heard of has sent me money on PayPal - again, many from Romania. I suspect there is a gang working out there on these spoof emails. It's easy money for them if folks fall for it and many do.

As a rule I report them as abuse to the originating and hosting ISPs as well as to eBay ([email protected]) or PayPal ([email protected]). This will get the spoof site taken offline and prevent people losing their money.

PLEASE be wary of any email purporting to be from eBay or PayPal. If in doubt go to eBay or PayPal without following the links in these emails entering the known addresses - http://www.ebay.com and https://www.paypal.com

If eBay or PayPal has sent you an alert you'll be able to find details when you've logged onto the correct website.

Above all, be careful!

 

[dawnmelissa]

yep, i work for paypal, there's so many of these emails that have been going around forever, and what you've said is correct, neither company will send out emails like this and will only give you information about the accounts once you're logged into the account. another thing to look for from paypal anyhow, is to make sure the emails address you by your first and last name, most of these spoof emails just say 'dear paypal customer'. it's scary how many people fall for them.