{"id":389846,"date":"2026-04-24T02:22:57","date_gmt":"2026-04-24T02:22:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=389846"},"modified":"2026-04-24T02:22:58","modified_gmt":"2026-04-24T02:22:58","slug":"beware-the-fake-paypal-prefund-confirmation-text-scam-investigation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/beware-the-fake-paypal-prefund-confirmation-text-scam-investigation\/","title":{"rendered":"Beware the FAKE PayPal Prefund Confirmation Text Scam &#8211; Investigation"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A text message claiming that your PayPal account is linked to a third-party wallet and that $980 will be processed soon is not a real PayPal alert.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1577754983\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309684--placement_360520\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3957935887\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a fake PayPal \u201cprefund confirmation\u201d message designed to make you call a scam phone number. Once you call, the scam shifts into a tech support scam where criminals try to access your device, your bank account, and your money.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"416\" height=\"249\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1-59.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-389847\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1-59.jpg 416w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/1-59-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 416px) 100vw, 416px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3951452964\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309746-ad_309691-placement_360521\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"4456629336\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Scam Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The PayPal Prefund Confirmation Text Scam is a fake security or account activation message that pretends to come from PayPal. The message usually claims that a small deposit has confirmed your account is active, that your account is now linked to a third-party wallet, and that a larger amount, often $980, will be processed soon.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1023053226\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381396-ad_309691-placement_360566\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1471373341\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A typical version says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201c<em>Prefund confirmation: Your account is linked to a third-party wallet. This small deposit ensures whether your account is active or not. Your account has been activated successfully, and 980 USD will be processed soon. For assistance, contact [scam phone number].<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At first glance, the message is confusing. That confusion is intentional.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3752436858\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309686-ad_309691-placement_360569\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6935453015\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most people do not use the term \u201cprefund confirmation\u201d in normal banking or PayPal activity. They may not know what a third-party wallet link means. They may also worry that someone has connected a strange wallet to their PayPal account and is about to move $980.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That moment of panic is exactly what the scammers want.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The message is not really about PayPal. It is bait for a phone call. The phone number in the text does not connect you to PayPal customer support. It connects you to a fake tech support center operated by scammers.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1030705736\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381401-ad_309691-placement_360573\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5315249587\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PayPal warns users not to call phone numbers listed in suspicious messages and says suspicious emails or messages should be reported through official PayPal channels. (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.paypal.com\/us\/security\/learn-about-fake-messages?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">PayPal<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once victims call the number, the scammer usually pretends to be from PayPal, a fraud department, a security team, or a refund department. The caller may sound calm, professional, and scripted. They may even know how to imitate the tone of a real customer service agent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer then claims there is a problem with your PayPal account, your bank account, your device, or your network. They may say your phone or computer is infected. They may say hackers are trying to transfer money. They may say the $980 transaction is pending and can only be canceled if you follow their instructions.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3290780561\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381404-ad_309691-placement_381406\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8735619847\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where the scam becomes dangerous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The fake agent will often ask you to install remote access software such as AnyDesk, TeamViewer, UltraViewer, or a similar tool. These apps are legitimate when used properly, but scammers misuse them to view your screen, control your device, and guide you into exposing sensitive information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The FTC warns that tech support scammers commonly ask for remote access, then may direct victims to fake refund pages or trick them into entering bank or card details. <\/p><div id=\"mwtad500667314\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360582-ad_309691-placement_360581\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9971336976\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once connected, the scammer may ask you to open your online banking app, PayPal account, email account, or password manager. They may claim this is needed to verify your identity, cancel the transaction, process a refund, or \u201csecure\u201d your account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In reality, they are watching everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may look for:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad452557947\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360567-ad_309691-placement_360771\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6224621518\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bank account balances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Credit card details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PayPal login information<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Email access<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saved passwords<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two-factor authentication codes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identity documents<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cryptocurrency wallets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Business accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Personal photos or files they can use for pressure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some scammers use fake refund tricks. They may pretend to accidentally send too much money back to you, then demand you return the difference. Others may edit the webpage on your screen or use tricks to make it look like your bank balance changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another common tactic is gift card fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer may say the only way to cancel the fake $980 transaction is to buy gift cards, read the codes over the phone, and wait for reimbursement. This is always a scam. The FTC states clearly that anyone who asks you to pay with a gift card is a scammer. <\/p><div id=\"mwtad3384255288\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360571-ad_309691-placement_360772\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5867729999\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may ask for gift cards from Apple, Google Play, Target, Walmart, Steam, eBay, or other major retailers. Once the codes are sent, the money is usually gone within minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The PayPal Prefund Confirmation Text Scam is especially effective because it combines several psychological triggers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A trusted brand name<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A strange financial term<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A specific dollar amount<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A fake account activation notice<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A sense of urgency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A phone number that feels like a direct support line<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fear of unauthorized access<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The promise that help is available immediately<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The message does not need to be perfectly written. It only needs to make the recipient think, \u201cWhat is this, and do I need to stop it?\u201d<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1572851159\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360576-ad_309691-placement_360773\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6594472392\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is enough to push some people into calling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The important thing to understand is simple: PayPal is not sending these texts. The $980 transaction is not real. The phone number is not PayPal support. The goal is not to help you. The goal is to get you on the phone and manipulate you into giving scammers access, information, or money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3308066597\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309747-ad_309691-placement_360587\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9589536513\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How The Scam Works<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. The Fake PayPal Text Arrives<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scam begins with a text message that appears to be related to PayPal. It may arrive from a random phone number, a spoofed sender name, or a number that looks ordinary enough not to raise immediate suspicion.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad843435743\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360583-ad_309691-placement_360774\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8849826992\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The text uses phrases such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cPrefund confirmation\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYour account is linked to a third-party wallet\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYour account has been activated successfully\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201c$980 will be processed soon\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cFor assistance, contact this number\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The wording is awkward, but that is part of the trap. Many people read it and think there may be a real issue they do not understand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3547508605\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360584-ad_309691-placement_360775\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3952847241\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer wants you to focus on the possible $980 charge, not the suspicious language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. The Message Creates Panic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The mention of a third-party wallet is meant to sound like someone has connected an outside payment account to your PayPal. This makes the message feel like an account takeover warning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The $980 amount is also carefully chosen. It is large enough to cause stress, but not so large that it feels unbelievable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The victim may think:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cDid someone hack my PayPal?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cIs this money about to leave my account?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWhat is a prefund confirmation?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cDo I need to cancel this immediately?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cIs the phone number my fastest option?\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That emotional pressure is the real weapon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. The Victim Calls the Scam Number<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The text includes a phone number for \u201cassistance.\u201d Calling that number is the turning point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The person who answers is not a PayPal employee. They are a scammer trained to sound like support staff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may answer with a professional greeting such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cPayPal billing department\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cPayPal fraud protection\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cPayPal security support\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cCustomer refund department\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cOnline payment verification team\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may ask for your name, phone number, email address, or PayPal email. This makes the call feel official, but it also helps them collect personal data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. The Scammer Confirms a Fake Problem<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After you explain the text, the scammer will pretend to check your account. They may put you on hold, type loudly, or read from a script to make the call feel real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then they will \u201cconfirm\u201d that something suspicious is happening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may claim:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A third-party wallet was linked to your PayPal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A $980 transfer is pending<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your account was accessed from another state or country<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your device has been compromised<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your IP address is being used by hackers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multiple failed login attempts were detected<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your bank account is at risk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The transaction can still be stopped if you act now<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not a real diagnosis. It is a pressure script.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. They Move the Scam From PayPal to Your Device<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer now shifts the story. Instead of simply discussing PayPal, they claim the problem is caused by your phone, computer, browser, network, or email account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is how a fake PayPal alert becomes a tech support scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cYour device is infected\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cHackers are watching your screen\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYour browser has been compromised\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWe need to secure your system\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWe need to connect you to a secure server\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWe need remote access to cancel the transaction\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This sounds technical, but it is just a setup for remote access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. They Ask You to Install Remote Access Software<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next, the scammer asks you to download an app such as AnyDesk or another remote connection tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may say it is needed to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cancel the $980 transfer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Verify the account holder<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remove hackers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Issue a refund<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secure your PayPal account<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protect your bank account<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scan your device<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The software itself may be legitimate. The scam is how it is being used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you give the scammer the remote access code, they may be able to see your screen, move your mouse, open apps, browse files, and guide you through sensitive actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never give remote access to someone who contacted you through a suspicious message or phone number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. They Ask You to Log In to Sensitive Accounts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once connected, the scammer may ask you to open PayPal, your email, or your online banking account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may claim they need to verify whether the fake $980 charge has reached your bank. They may say they need to check for unauthorized transactions. They may tell you not to worry because they are using a \u201csecure connection.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where many victims lose money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer may watch as you type passwords, view account balances, copy personal information, or approve security prompts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may also ask you to read out one-time verification codes. Real companies do not need you to read security codes to random callers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. They Use Fake Refund Tricks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In many versions of this scam, the criminal claims they will refund or cancel the $980 charge. They may open a fake form and ask you to type an amount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then they pretend a mistake happened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, they may claim they accidentally refunded $9,800 instead of $980. They may show you a manipulated screen or use browser tricks to make it look like your bank balance increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then they pressure you to return the \u201cextra\u201d money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a classic refund scam tactic. The money was never deposited. The screen was manipulated. But the victim is pressured into sending real money back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. They Demand Gift Cards, Wire Transfers, Crypto, or Payment Apps<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the scammer thinks they can get money from you, they will push for payment methods that are hard to reverse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common request is gift cards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may tell you to buy cards from a local store, scratch off the back, and read the codes over the phone. They may stay on the line while you drive to the store. They may tell you not to speak to the cashier. They may say the cards are only for \u201cverification\u201d and will be refunded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is false.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gift card codes are cash to scammers. Once they receive the codes, they can drain them quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may also ask for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bank transfers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zelle payments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cash App payments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PayPal Friends and Family payments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cryptocurrency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cash sent by mail<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prepaid cards<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Any support agent who asks for these payment methods is not legitimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. They May Try to Keep Control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some scammers do not stop after the first payment. They may call again and pretend to be a bank, PayPal investigator, cybersecurity company, government agency, or recovery department.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They may say:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cYour refund is still pending\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWe recovered some of your money\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYou need to pay a release fee\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYour bank account is still compromised\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYou must keep this confidential\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cDo not contact your bank yet\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is designed to isolate the victim and keep the scam going.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you already interacted with the scammers, do not continue the conversation. Hang up, disconnect your device from the internet, and contact your bank using a verified number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad1825736764\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309748-ad_309691-placement_360588\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3906789406\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What To Do If You Have Fallen Victim to This Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Stop Contact With the Scammers Immediately<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not call them back. Do not answer follow-up calls. Do not reply to text messages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If they are still connected to your device, disconnect from the internet immediately. Turn off WiFi, unplug Ethernet, or shut down the device.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not argue with them or try to catch them. Your priority is limiting damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Remove Remote Access Software<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you installed AnyDesk, TeamViewer, UltraViewer, or another remote access tool, uninstall it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also check whether the scammer installed anything else while connected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look for unfamiliar apps, browser extensions, remote tools, VPN tools, or \u201csecurity\u201d programs you do not recognize.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Run a Full Security Scan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use trusted security software to scan your computer or phone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the scammer had full access to your device, consider getting help from a trusted local technician. In serious cases, a full system reset may be safest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not use a technician or company recommended by the scammer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Change Important Passwords From a Clean Device<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Change passwords for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PayPal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Email accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Online banking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Credit card accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apple ID or Google account<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shopping accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Password manager<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Social media accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cryptocurrency wallets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use a different, secure device if possible. If the scammer accessed your computer, do not change passwords from that same machine until it has been checked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Turn on two-factor authentication for PayPal, email, banking, and other important accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use an authenticator app when possible. SMS codes are better than nothing, but authenticator apps are generally stronger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Contact Your Bank or Card Issuer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Call your bank using the official number on the back of your card or from the bank\u2019s official website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You received a fake PayPal text<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You called the number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A scammer may have accessed your device<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You may have exposed banking information<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You may have sent money or purchased gift cards<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask them to monitor or freeze affected accounts, cancel cards if needed, and dispute unauthorized transactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Contact PayPal Directly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Log in by typing PayPal\u2019s official website address into your browser. Do not use links from the text.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check your account activity. Look for unauthorized payments, linked bank accounts, linked cards, shipping addresses, or profile changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Report the suspicious message to PayPal. PayPal says suspicious emails can be forwarded to <a href=\"mailto:phishing@paypal.com\">phishing@paypal.com<\/a>, and users should avoid calling phone numbers listed in suspicious messages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. If You Bought Gift Cards, Contact the Gift Card Company<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you gave gift card codes to the scammer, contact the gift card issuer immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell them the cards were used in a scam. Provide receipts, card numbers, purchase times, and any scam phone numbers involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Recovery is not guaranteed, but acting quickly gives you the best chance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Report the Scam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Report the scam to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The FBI\u2019s IC3 at ic3.gov if you are in the United States<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your local police or cybercrime authority<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PayPal\u2019s official phishing reporting channel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your mobile carrier by forwarding the scam text to 7726, if supported<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reporting helps authorities track scam numbers, payment patterns, and fraud networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Watch for Follow-Up Scams<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After one scam attempt, your phone number may be targeted again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be suspicious of anyone claiming they can recover your money for a fee. Many \u201crecovery experts\u201d are scammers too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also watch for calls claiming to be from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PayPal fraud department<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your bank\u2019s security team<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Microsoft or Apple support<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The FTC<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The FBI<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A gift card refund department<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A crypto recovery service<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Real agencies and companies do not demand gift cards, remote access, or secrecy.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3987528071\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_318930-ad_309691-placement_360589\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3818335085\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><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. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with <strong>Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free<\/strong> \u2014 one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.<\/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 whole process takes about 5 minutes.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"su-tabs su-tabs-style-default su-tabs-mobile-stack\" data-active=\"1\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\"><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Windows<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Mac<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Android<\/span><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Windows\">\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 and clean your PC in just a few minutes.<\/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\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\"\/><\/figure> <strong><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/downloads\/MBSetup-076886.076886-consumer.exe\" onclick=\"window.open(&#039;https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free&#039;);\">DOWNLOAD MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS (FREE)<br \/>\n<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em class=\"small-text-disclaimer\">(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/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 \n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"975\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px\" \/><\/figure>\n \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    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"737\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 737px) 100vw, 737px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>When installation is complete, the &#8220;<strong>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/strong>&#8221; screen will open automatically.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>On the final screen, click <strong>Open Malwarebytes<\/strong> to launch the program.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"749\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Enable &#8220;Scan for Rootkits&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the <strong>Settings<\/strong> gear icon on the left side of the screen.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285942\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the settings menu, find &#8220;<strong>Scan for rootkits<\/strong>&#8221; and click the toggle so it turns blue.\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"841\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285943\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg 841w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 841px) 100vw, 841px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Done? Click &#8220;<strong>Dashboard<\/strong>&#8221; in the left pane to return to the main screen.\n\n <\/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>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"849\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/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 several minutes. Feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\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 \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\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<p>Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p><\/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, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg\" alt=\"\" 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=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>When the scan finishes, click <strong>Quarantine<\/strong> to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That&#8217;s it \u2014 your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>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:\/\/www.eset.com\/us\/home\/online-scanner\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">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>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Mac\">\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 and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.<\/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\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1011lvqrV\/creativeref:1011l100234\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">DOWNLOAD MALWAREBYTES FOR MAC (FREE)<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/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 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=\"(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 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=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img 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=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img 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=\"(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<\/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 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=\"(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 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=\"(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 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=\"(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 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=\"(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, your Mac is clean.<br \/><img 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=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><br \/><\/p> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>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>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Android\">\n\n<h3 id=\"androidh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/h3>\n\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don&#8217;t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.<\/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<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=org.malwarebytes.antimalware&#038;hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MALWAREBYTES FOR ANDROID DOWNLOAD LINK<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Android)<\/em><\/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 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=\"(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 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=\"(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 will open, you will see the <em>Malwarebytes Setup Wizard<\/em> which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options.<br \/>This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106944\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" width=\"292\" height=\"577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;<strong>Got it<\/strong>&#8221; to proceed to the next step.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106945\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on &#8220;<strong>Give permission<\/strong>&#8221; to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106946\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" width=\"292\" height=\"570\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3-154x300.jpg 154w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;Allow&#8221; to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106947\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" width=\"292\" height=\"573\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7-153x300.jpg 153w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/p>\n<p>You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106939\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes fix issue\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>Click on &#8220;<strong>Update database<\/strong>&#8221; to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on &#8220;<strong>Run full scan<\/strong>&#8221; to perform a system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106948\" title=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan on phone\" width=\"291\" height=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg 291w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 291px) 100vw, 291px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/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 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=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Remove Selected&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the &#8220;<strong>Remove Selected<\/strong>&#8221; button.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106942\" title=\"Tap on the Remove button to get rid of malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Remove malware from your phone\" width=\"760\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg 760w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware-300x237.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart your phone.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<hr \/>\n\n<p>After the scan, tap <strong>Remove Selected<\/strong> to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean \u2014 no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>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>Restore your phone to factory settings by going to <em>Settings &gt; General management &gt; Reset &gt; Factory data reset.<\/em><\/li><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><\/ul>\n\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h3>Stay Protected: Block Ads and Malicious Sites<\/h3>\n\n<p>Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. 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<div id=\"mwtad81955554\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381388-ad_309691-placement_381390\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3191649120\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bottom Line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The PayPal Prefund Confirmation Text Scam is not a real PayPal alert. It is a fake message designed to make you call a scam phone number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you call, scammers pose as support agents, claim your device or account is compromised, ask for remote access, and try to steal money through bank access, fake refunds, or gift card payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not call the number in the text. Do not install remote access software. Do not share codes, passwords, banking details, or gift card numbers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check your PayPal account only through the official PayPal website or app, then report the message and delete it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad879245348\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381392-ad_309691-placement_381395\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2944237110\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is the PayPal \u201cPrefund Confirmation\u201d text real?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. This message is fake and not sent by PayPal. It is designed to trick you into calling a scam phone number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should I do if I receive this text?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not call the number. Delete the message and check your PayPal account only through the official app or website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why does the message mention $980?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The amount is used to create urgency and fear. It is not a real transaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens if I call the number?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You will reach scammers pretending to be support agents. They will try to convince you your account or device is compromised and push you to give them access or money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do scammers ask for remote access apps like AnyDesk?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remote access lets them see your screen, control your device, and steal sensitive information such as passwords or banking details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will PayPal ever ask me to install software or call a number from a text?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. PayPal does not ask you to install remote access software or call random phone numbers from unsolicited messages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do they ask for gift cards?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gift cards are difficult to trace and cannot be reversed. Once you share the codes, the money is gone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I get my money back if I was scammed?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It depends on the payment method and how quickly you act. Contact your bank, PayPal, or the gift card issuer immediately for the best chance of recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can I protect myself from similar scams?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid calling numbers from unsolicited messages, never share codes or passwords, and always verify alerts through official websites or apps.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A text message claiming that your PayPal account is linked to a third-party wallet and that $980 will be processed soon is not a real PayPal alert. This is a fake PayPal \u201cprefund confirmation\u201d message &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"Beware the FAKE PayPal Prefund Confirmation Text Scam &#8211; Investigation\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/beware-the-fake-paypal-prefund-confirmation-text-scam-investigation\/#more-389846\" aria-label=\"Read more about Beware the FAKE PayPal Prefund Confirmation Text Scam &#8211; Investigation\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":389847,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ai_generated_summary":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-389846","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\/389846","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=389846"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/389846\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/389847"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=389846"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=389846"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=389846"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}