{"id":289951,"date":"2024-06-07T14:44:42","date_gmt":"2024-06-07T14:44:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=289951"},"modified":"2024-06-07T14:44:42","modified_gmt":"2024-06-07T14:44:42","slug":"paypal-confirmation-notification-email-scam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/paypal-confirmation-notification-email-scam\/","title":{"rendered":"Beware the FAKE PayPal Confirmation Notification Email Scam"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The PayPal Confirmation Notification scam starts with an email that appears to come from PayPal, complete with official logos and formatting. The email claims that you have purchased or subscribed to a product or service, often for hundreds of dollars. It will include fake transaction details and instructions to call a phone number for assistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, it\u2019s all a scam designed to steal your money and personal information. The PayPal confirmation email is totally fake. If you call the number, you\u2019ll actually be connected to a criminal posing as \u201ctech support.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this comprehensive guide, we\u2019ll explain exactly how the PayPal confirmation scam works, provide examples of the emails, outline the potential risks and damages, and offer tips to avoid falling victim. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"860\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/scam-4-1-1024x860.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-289952\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/scam-4-1-1024x860.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/scam-4-1-300x252.jpg 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/scam-4-1-1536x1290.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/scam-4-1-2048x1720.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overview of the PayPal Confirmation Notification Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The PayPal confirmation scam is a type of phishing attack where scammers send fake emails pretending to be from PayPal. The emails look very convincing, containing PayPal logos,colors and formats matching real PayPal notifications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is to trick recipients into calling a phone number listed in the email for supposed assistance with a nonexistent issue regarding a fake transaction. However, the number actually connects to a criminal posing as PayPal customer support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once on the phone, the scammer will gain remote access to the victim\u2019s computer or mobile device under the guise of providing refund assistance. From there, the scammer can steal login credentials, install malware, access financial accounts, and siphon money from the victim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers may also try to extort payments from victims by claiming their device is infected with malware that must be removed. They instruct victims to purchase gift cards to pay for phony tech support services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some key things to know about the PayPal confirmation scam:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Emails contain fake transaction IDs, amounts, and other details to appear real.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Criminals use phishing links, logos, and formatting identical to real PayPal messages.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The phone number goes to a fake \u201ctech support\u201d center, not real PayPal agents.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once remoted into a device, scammers steal personal data and money.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scammers often demand gift card payments for fake services.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Losses per victim can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is how the PayPal Confirmation Notification email scam may look:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PayPal<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Confirmation Notification<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Date: May 31, 2024<br \/>Transaction ID: T36JS39SJ29263F2<br \/>Amount: 349.99 USD<br \/>Subscription Duration: 3 Years<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dear user,<br \/>Based on the digital signature that you submitted when the software initially installed, the Premium Plus Plan has been automatically applied to your application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Description<br \/>Product Invoice Amount Authorization Code<br \/>Windows Defender $349.99 USD AZ769287A8Z<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Process ID bc1qp5f7lyar0y5xydhsu3d09edkd8hlwmkwjygyq7<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Questions?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get in touch with a member of our team today!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Phone Number: + 1 (808) 201-8291<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thank You<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This scam exploits PayPal\u2019s reputation as a trusted payments platform to make the emails appear legitimate. Always scrutinize any unexpected emails claiming to be from companies carefully before calling phone numbers or clicking links.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How the PayPal Confirmation Notification Scam Works<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The criminals carrying out this scam are very deliberate in their techniques to deceive victims. Here are the typical steps of how the PayPal confirmation scam unfolds:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Victims Receive a Fake PayPal Email<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scam starts with an email sent to thousands of potential victims simultaneously. The sender name, email address, and subject line are forged to mimic a real PayPal notification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, the from address may show \u201cservice@paypal.com\u201d or \u201cno-reply@paypal.com.\u201d The subject line often says something like \u201cPayment Confirmation\u201d or \u201cSubscription Renewal Receipt from PayPal.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The email body is made to look exactly like a legitimate PayPal email confirmation. It contains PayPal branding colors, logos, fonts, and formatting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key details include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A fake recent transaction date<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A made-up transaction ID<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An amount, often $200 to $500<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Subscription duration or billing period<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An authorization code or other fake verification details<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These specifics are included to convince recipients the email is real. But the transaction ID, amount, and other data are completely fabricated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Email Contains a Fake Customer Support Number<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Within the content, the email provides a customer support phone number. It goes something to the effect of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cIf you have any questions about this transaction, please contact PayPal Customer Support at 1-800-XXX-XXXX.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This tricks the victim into thinking there is an issue with the payment that needs clearing up. But in reality, the number routes to the criminal\u2019s fake support call center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Victims Call the Number<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many recipients don\u2019t recognize the email is a scam. They call the number, believing they are contacting real PayPal agents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once on the phone, the criminals pose as PayPal support staff. They confirm the victim\u2019s name and ask for account details to pretend to look up the \u201cunauthorized transaction.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: Criminals Gain Remote Access to the Victim\u2019s Device<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The fake support rep claims the victim\u2019s account has been compromised and that they need remote access to the device to resolve the issue and process a refund.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the victim consents and grants access, the criminals can install malware and spyware to collect personal data, banking details, and passwords stored on the device.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5: Criminals Steal Money and Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With backdoor access to the device and the victim still believing they are getting assistance from PayPal, the criminals can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Access and steal funds from linked financial accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trick the victim into making payments or purchases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get login credentials for email, banking, and other accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Download contacts, photos, and other sensitive files<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Install more malware to continue spying and collecting data<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The criminals may also try to extort money from the victims through fake tech support services to \u201cremove viruses.\u201d They instruct the victim to go purchase gift cards from retailers like Amazon or iTunes and provide the redemption code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6: Criminals End the Call<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the criminals have gotten all they can from the remoted access, they end the call abruptly. The victim is left with no refund, unauthorized charges, compromised accounts, and no way to recover losses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From start to finish, the criminals rely on impersonation, urgency, and appearing helpful to maintain the facade that they are PayPal agents. This allows them to systematically extract as much value as possible from each victim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to Do If You Fell Victim to the PayPal Confirmation Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you receive one of these emails and engaged with the scammers, here are important steps to take right away:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Contact your bank and financial institutions.<\/strong> Have them block any linked accounts and cards to prevent additional fraudulent charges. Monitor account activity closely for the next few months.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Change passwords.<\/strong> Reset all account passwords, especially for email, financial, and retail accounts. Use a different password for each account. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Scan devices for malware.<\/strong> Use trusted antivirus software to detect and remove any malware or spyware installed during the remote access session. You may need to wipe the device completely.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Place fraud alert.<\/strong> Contact one of the three credit bureaus to place an initial 90-day fraud alert on your credit file to help prevent identity theft.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>File police report.<\/strong> Report the scam to local law enforcement and provide them with details of the email, fraudulent transactions, and gift card purchases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Report to PayPal.<\/strong> Contact PayPal to notify them that someone is impersonating them through phishing emails. Provide copies of the scam emails.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Notify the FTC.<\/strong> File a scam report with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission so they can investigate and help bring the criminals to justice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Monitor accounts and credit.<\/strong> Keep checking bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized charges. Also order your free annual credit reports and check for any suspicious activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Seek legal counsel.<\/strong> For significant financial losses, you may need to pursue legal action. An attorney can help determine if you have any options to recover stolen funds.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The quicker you act, the better chance you have of stopping the damage and avoiding becoming a victim of identity theft as a result of the scam.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2>Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan<\/h2>\n\n<p>Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. A quick way to check is to scan your device with <strong>Malwarebytes Free<\/strong>, one of the most trusted malware removal tools available. If you only visited a scam page and didn&#8217;t download or install anything, this scan is optional.<\/p>\n\n<p>The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Adware<\/strong> \u2014 the cause of those annoying pop-ups<\/li>\n<li><strong>Browser hijackers<\/strong> \u2014 unwanted redirects and changed homepages<\/li>\n<li><strong>Trojans and spyware<\/strong> \u2014 hidden programs stealing your data<\/li>\n<li><strong>Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs)<\/strong> \u2014 software you never asked for<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 <strong>Select your device below<\/strong> \u2014 Windows, Mac, or Android \u2014 then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The scan usually takes 5 to 20 minutes.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"su-tabs mwtcui-tabs \" data-mwt-tabs data-active=\"1\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\" role=\"tablist\" aria-label=\"Instructions\"><button type=\"button\" class=\"\" role=\"tab\" id=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-0-tab\" aria-controls=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-0\" aria-selected=\"true\" tabindex=\"0\" data-anchor=\"\">Malwarebytes for Windows<\/button><button type=\"button\" class=\"\" role=\"tab\" id=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-1-tab\" aria-controls=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-1\" aria-selected=\"false\" tabindex=\"-1\" data-anchor=\"\">Malwarebytes for Mac<\/button><button type=\"button\" class=\"\" role=\"tab\" id=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-2-tab\" aria-controls=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-2\" aria-selected=\"false\" tabindex=\"-1\" data-anchor=\"\">Malwarebytes for Android<\/button><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane mwtcui-tab-panel \" id=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-0\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-0-tab\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Windows\" data-anchor=\"\">\n\n<h3 id=\"windowsh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Malwarebytes<\/strong> is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows \u2014 and it&#8217;s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan your PC and remove what Malwarebytes finds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes<\/p> <p>Click the button below to download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Windows<\/strong> from the official source. The free version is all you need \u2014 it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.<\/p> <div class=\"mwt_download_box mwt_cta\"><div class=\"mwt_cta_head\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"mwt_product_icon_logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes logo\" title=\"\"><div><span class=\"mwt_cta_title\">Malwarebytes Free for Windows<\/span><span class=\"mwt_cta_sub\">Scans and removes malware at no cost<\/span><\/div><\/div><a class=\"mwt_cta_btn\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/downloads\/MBSetup-076886.076886-consumer.exe\" onclick=\"window.open('https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free','_blank','noopener');\">Download Malwarebytes<\/a><span class=\"mwt_cta_note\">Official installer for Windows 11 and 10. Your download starts right away.<\/span><a class=\"mwt_cta_more\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-premium-box\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored\">Want real-time protection? See Malwarebytes Premium<\/a><\/div><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <strong>Downloads<\/strong> folder and <strong>double-click the MBSetup file<\/strong>. If Windows shows a <strong>User Account Control<\/strong> pop-up, click &#8220;<em>Yes<\/em>&#8221; to allow the installation.<\/p>\n\n <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"975\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg\" alt=\"Windows File Explorer Downloads folder with the Malwarebytes setup file highlighted\" class=\"wp-image-285934\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg 975w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1-300x154.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px\" \/><\/figure> \n\n \n  \n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p> \n\n<p>The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \n  <li>\n    <p>Choose where you&#8217;re installing the program \u2014 &#8220;<strong>Personal Computer<\/strong>&#8221; or &#8220;<strong>Work Computer<\/strong>&#8221; \u2014 then click <strong>Next<\/strong>.<\/p>\n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"737\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup asking you to choose a protection type, with Personal selected\" class=\"wp-image-285953\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg 737w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 737px) 100vw, 737px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.<\/p>\n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup installing the program, with the progress at 92 percent\" class=\"wp-image-285937\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg 759w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4-300x198.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>When installation is complete, the &#8220;<strong>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/strong>&#8221; screen will open automatically.<\/p>\n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg\" alt=\"Welcome to Malwarebytes screen with the Get started button highlighted\" class=\"wp-image-285951\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg 705w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>On the final screen, click <strong>Open Malwarebytes<\/strong> to launch the program.<\/p>\n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"749\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup success screen with the Open Malwarebytes button highlighted\" class=\"wp-image-285952\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg 749w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Optional: Check for rootkits with a Custom Scan<\/p>\n<p>You don&#8217;t need to change any settings for a normal scan. The standard <strong>Threat Scan<\/strong> in the next step is enough for most problems, so you can go straight to it.<\/p>\n<p>If you also want to check for rootkits, use a Custom Scan. In current versions of Malwarebytes, rootkit scanning is only available there:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>On the <strong>Scanner<\/strong> tile, click the three-dot menu and select <strong>Advanced Scan<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Choose <strong>Custom Scan<\/strong>. In its options, check <strong>Scan for rootkits<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Select your system drive (usually <strong>C:\\<\/strong>) as the location to scan, then start the scan. It takes longer than a Threat Scan.<\/li>\n<li>When it finishes, review and quarantine the results as described in the steps below.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Rootkit scanning isn&#8217;t available on Windows devices with ARM processors.<\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start the Scan<\/p> <p>Click the blue <strong>Scan<\/strong> button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"849\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes dashboard with the Scan button on the Scanner tile highlighted\" class=\"wp-image-285941\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg 849w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px\" \/><\/figure><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take 5 to 20 minutes depending on your computer. Feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Threat Scan in progress, listing the scan stages and the number of items scanned\" class=\"wp-image-285944\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine the Detected Threats<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, you&#8217;ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found \u2014 malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button to remove all of them at once.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Threat Scan results listing detected potentially unwanted programs, with the Quarantine button highlighted\" class=\"wp-image-285945\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p>Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes moving the selected detections to quarantine\" class=\"wp-image-285946\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n  <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Your Computer<\/p>\n  <p>Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click <strong>Yes<\/strong>. Once you&#8217;re logged back in, Malwarebytes has finished removing the threats it found.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes message asking to restart the computer to finish the removal, with the Yes button highlighted\" class=\"wp-image-285947\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>When the scan is done, check whether the problems you noticed have stopped. If they continue, see the options below.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box mwt_cta mwt_protect\"><div class=\"mwt_cta_head\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"mwt_product_icon_logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes logo\" title=\"\"><div><span class=\"mwt_cta_title\">Keep your PC protected<\/span><span class=\"mwt_cta_sub\">Stop the next infection before it starts<\/span><\/div><\/div><span class=\"mwt_protect_text\">If your antivirus let this threat through, it may not be enough on its own. Malwarebytes Premium adds real-time protection that blocks malware, ransomware, and malicious websites before they can infect your computer.<\/span><a class=\"mwt_cta_btn\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-premium-final\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored\">See Malwarebytes Premium<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Run a computer scan with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/esetonlinescanner\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored\" data-google-vignette=\"false\">ESET Online Scanner<\/a><\/strong><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Malware Removal Assistance for Windows\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/windows-malware-removal-help-support.10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Windows Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-pane mwtcui-tab-panel \" id=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-1\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-1-tab\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Mac\" data-anchor=\"\">\n\n<h3 id=\"mach3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Mac<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong> is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss \u2014 adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it&#8217;s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan your Mac and remove what Malwarebytes finds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Mac<\/p>\n<p>Click the button below to download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box mwt_cta\"><div class=\"mwt_cta_head\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"mwt_product_icon_logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes logo\" title=\"\"><div><span class=\"mwt_cta_title\">Malwarebytes Free for Mac<\/span><span class=\"mwt_cta_sub\">Scans and removes malware at no cost<\/span><\/div><\/div><a class=\"mwt_cta_btn\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/download-malwarebytes-for-mac\" onclick=\"window.open('https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-mac','_blank','noopener');\">Download Malwarebytes<\/a><span class=\"mwt_cta_note\">Official installer for macOS. Your download starts right away.<\/span><a class=\"mwt_cta_more\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-mac-premium\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored\">Want real-time protection? See Malwarebytes Premium<\/a><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Open the Malwarebytes setup file<\/p>\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <em>Downloads<\/em> folder and <strong>double-click the setup file<\/strong> to begin the installation.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98734 alignnone\" title=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg\" alt=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" width=\"750\" height=\"424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-300x170.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n<p>The <em>Malwarebytes for Mac Installer<\/em> will guide you through a few quick screens. Click &#8220;<strong>Continue<\/strong>&#8221; and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98735 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Click Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"532\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98736 alignnone\" title=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac for Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98737 alignnone\" title=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg\" alt=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the <em>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/em> screen. Click &#8220;<strong>Get started<\/strong>&#8220;.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes needs <strong>Full Disk Access<\/strong> to check your whole Mac. When it asks, open <strong>System Settings &gt; Privacy &amp; Security &gt; Full Disk Access<\/strong>, turn on <strong>Malwarebytes<\/strong> (it may be listed as Malwarebytes Protection), and confirm with your password or Touch ID. Then return to Malwarebytes. On macOS Monterey and earlier, this setting is in System Preferences &gt; Security &amp; Privacy &gt; Privacy.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Select &#8220;Personal Computer&#8221; or &#8220;Work Computer&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you&#8217;re installing it on. Click either <strong>Personal Computer<\/strong> or <strong>Work Computer<\/strong>, whichever applies.<br \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98740 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg\" alt=\"Select Personal Computer or Work Computer mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"537\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start the Scan<\/p>\n<p>Click the &#8220;<strong>Scan<\/strong>&#8221; button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.<br \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98733 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Click on Scan button to start a system scan Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<br \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98739 alignnone\" title=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan your computer\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg\" alt=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan for malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine the Detected Threats<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, you&#8217;ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button to remove all the threats at once.<br \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98732 alignnone\" title=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg\" alt=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine to remove malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Your Mac<\/p> <p>Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot \u2014 if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you&#8217;re logged back in, check whether the problems you noticed have stopped. If they come back, save the scan report and ask for help in our forum.<br \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98738 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes For Mac requesting to restart computer\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><br \/><\/p> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>If the problems you noticed continue after the scan, see the options below.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box mwt_cta mwt_protect\"><div class=\"mwt_cta_head\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"mwt_product_icon_logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes logo\" title=\"\"><div><span class=\"mwt_cta_title\">Keep your Mac protected<\/span><span class=\"mwt_cta_sub\">Stop the next infection before it starts<\/span><\/div><\/div><span class=\"mwt_protect_text\">If your Mac got infected, its built-in protection may not be enough on its own. Malwarebytes Premium for Mac adds real-time protection that blocks malware and adware before they can infect your Mac.<\/span><a class=\"mwt_cta_btn\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-mac-premium\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored\">See Malwarebytes Premium<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mac-malware-removal-help-support.183\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/p>\n\n\n<\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-pane mwtcui-tab-panel \" id=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-2\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"mwtcui-tabs-1-2-tab\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Android\" data-anchor=\"\">\n\n<h3 id=\"androidh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/h3>\n\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android scans your phone or tablet for malware, adware, and potentially unwanted apps. The free version scans only when you start a scan. Real-time protection, which checks apps automatically, is part of the paid Premium version.<\/p>\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Android.<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>Malwarebytes for Android<\/strong> by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box mwt_cta\"><div class=\"mwt_cta_head\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"mwt_product_icon_logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes for Android logo\" title=\"\"><div><span class=\"mwt_cta_title\">Malwarebytes for Android<\/span><span class=\"mwt_cta_sub\">Scans your phone and removes malware at no cost<\/span><\/div><\/div><a class=\"mwt_cta_btn\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=org.malwarebytes.antimalware\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Get Malwarebytes for Android<\/a><span class=\"mwt_cta_note\">Opens Google Play in a new tab.<\/span><a class=\"mwt_cta_more\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-android\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored\">Want real-time protection? See Malwarebytes Premium for Android<\/a><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes for Android on your phone.<\/p>\n<p>In the Google Play Store, tap &#8220;<strong>Install<\/strong>&#8221; to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.<\/p>\n<figure><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106940\" title=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg\" alt=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation process has finished, tap &#8220;<strong>Open<\/strong>&#8221; to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.<br \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106941\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes for Android - Open App\" width=\"292\" height=\"578\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process<\/p>\n<p>When Malwarebytes opens, it walks you through a short setup. Tap <strong>Get started<\/strong> and follow the prompts. If you see an offer for a trial or a paid plan, read it before you accept. You can skip it and keep using the free scanner.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will ask for permission to access the files on your phone so it can scan them. Tap <strong>Allow<\/strong>, or turn on the permission in the Android screen that opens, then return to Malwarebytes.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/p>\n<p>On the main screen, tap <strong>Scan now<\/strong>. In some versions, you open the menu, tap <strong>Scanner<\/strong>, and then tap <strong>Run a scan<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.<br \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106943\" title=\"Malwarebytes scanning phone for malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes scanning Android for Vmalware\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Remove the detected apps.<\/p>\n<p>When the scan has been completed, you will see a list of the threats that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. Next to each detected item, tap the menu icon (three dots), then choose to uninstall the app or delete the file. Android then asks you to confirm. Tap <strong>OK<\/strong> or <strong>Uninstall<\/strong> to remove the app.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart your phone.<\/p>\n<p>When the detected apps are removed, restart your phone if Malwarebytes asks you to. Then check whether the problems you noticed have stopped.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<hr \/>\n\n<p>If the problems you noticed continue after the scan, see the options below.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box mwt_cta mwt_protect\"><div class=\"mwt_cta_head\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"mwt_product_icon_logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes logo\" title=\"\"><div><span class=\"mwt_cta_title\">Keep your phone protected<\/span><span class=\"mwt_cta_sub\">Stop the next infection before it starts<\/span><\/div><\/div><span class=\"mwt_protect_text\">Malwarebytes for Android Premium adds real-time protection that blocks malicious apps and scam links before they can harm your phone.<\/span><a class=\"mwt_cta_btn\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-android\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored\">See Malwarebytes for Android<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mobile-malware-removal-help-support.165\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><li>Only as a last resort, reset your phone to factory settings. Read the warning below first.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"mt_noter\"><strong>A factory reset erases everything on your phone.<\/strong> Your apps, photos, files, and settings are deleted, so use it only if the problem continues after the steps above and after you&#8217;ve asked for help. Before you reset:<ul><li>Back up your photos, videos, files, and messages, for example to your Google account or a computer.<\/li><li>Make sure you know your Google account email and password. The phone asks for them after the reset. If you changed the password recently, Google recommends waiting 24 hours before you reset.<\/li><li>On a Samsung phone, also make sure you know your Samsung account password.<\/li><li>If you use an authenticator app for two-step verification, move your accounts to another device or save your backup codes first.<\/li><\/ul>On a Google Pixel, go to <em>Settings &gt; System &gt; Reset options &gt; Erase all data (factory reset)<\/em>. On a Samsung Galaxy phone, go to <em>Settings &gt; General management &gt; Reset &gt; Factory data reset<\/em>. Menu names differ on other phones, so check your manufacturer&#8217;s support site.<\/div>\n\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3>Stay Protected: Block Ads and Malicious Sites<\/h3>\n\n<p>No scan can prove a device is completely clean, so it helps to block threats before they reach you. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button \u2014 so blocking them at the source is your best defense.<\/p>\n\n<p>We recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>AdGuard<\/strong><\/a>, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.<\/p>\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Download AdGuard and browse safely<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions About the PayPal Confirmation Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. What is the PayPal confirmation scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The PayPal confirmation scam is a type of phishing attack where scammers send fake emails pretending to be from PayPal. The emails look identical to real PayPal notifications and claim you made a purchase or subscription. It includes fake transaction details and a customer support number to call. However, the number actually routes to a criminal call center to steal your information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. How do I identify a fake PayPal email?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carefully inspect any PayPal email you receive, especially if you don&#8217;t recognize the transaction. Warning signs of a scam email are poor grammar, spelling errors, wrong email address, generic greetings like &#8220;Dear user&#8221;, and pressure to call a number. Log in to your PayPal account to confirm legitimacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. What happens if I call the number in a fake PayPal email?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The number goes to a fake tech support center, not real PayPal agents. They will trick you into providing account access and remote control of your device to steal your information and money. Never call numbers in unexpected emails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. What techniques do scammers use on the phone?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They confirm your name and account details to gain your trust. Then they claim your account was hacked to get remote access to your device and make you think they are helping you. With access, they steal info and money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. How much money can you lose to the PayPal scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Losses range from hundreds to thousands per victim. The scammers siphon money from bank accounts, make unauthorized purchases, and demand payment via gift cards for fake services. The longer they have access, the more financial damage they inflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. What should you do if you fell victim to this scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Immediately contact banks, reset passwords, check statements, scan for malware, place fraud alerts, file police reports, and notify PayPal. Monitor for identity theft and unauthorized charges. Seek legal counsel for large losses or to recover possible damages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. How can I avoid the PayPal confirmation scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never call numbers in suspicious emails, even if they look real. Log directly into PayPal if you get an email about an odd transaction. Use anti-phishing tools and be wary of urgent requests for personal info or payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. How widespread is this scam?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Very prevalent. Scammers cast a wide net hoping to catch victims with convincing PayPal branding. Reports of these fake emails and calls have been growing as criminals refine their techniques. Always stay vigilant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Are other companies targeted in similar scams?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Scammers also spoof emails from banks, online retailers, social media, and other services asking you to call. Use the same precautions if an email seems suspicious, no matter the company logo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Where can I report PayPal phishing scams?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notify PayPal directly if you receive a fake email. Also report it to the Anti-Phishing Working Group and forward to the FTC at spam@uce.gov. These help authorities identify and prosecute scammers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bottom Line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The PayPal confirmation notification scam can be incredibly convincing and has ensnared many victims. But awareness of how it works provides the best defense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scrutinize any unexpected emails that claim to be from PayPal or contain invoices. Do not call phone numbers or click links in suspicious emails. Instead, log directly into your PayPal account to view transaction activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legitimate companies will never call you out of the blue regarding account issues. Be wary of any unsolicited contact requesting remote access or direct payments. Avoid being rushed or pressured into anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With caution and vigilance, you can identify these criminal phishing attempts and avoid becoming the next victim. Don\u2019t let scammers leverage the trust placed in well-known brands to steal your hard-earned money and sensitive personal data.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The PayPal Confirmation Notification scam starts with an email that appears to come from PayPal, complete with official logos and formatting. The email claims that you have purchased or subscribed to a product or service, &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"Beware the FAKE PayPal Confirmation Notification Email Scam\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/paypal-confirmation-notification-email-scam\/#more-289951\" aria-label=\"Read more about Beware the FAKE PayPal Confirmation Notification Email Scam\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":289952,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-289951","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-scam-reports","masonry-post","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/289951","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/50"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=289951"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/289951\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/289952"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=289951"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=289951"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=289951"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}