Warning! Fraud Targeting PayPal - Account Suddenly Negative? The Reality of Guest Payments × IBAN Misuse

In Germany, there is growing attention on fraudulent use of IBANs involving automated voice calls claiming to be from PayPal and the misuse of guest payments that do not require an account. The automated voice typically states "500 euros transfer failed" and prompts for a PIN input. Guest payments can sometimes allow direct debits without app approval, and inexplicable withdrawals or demands for payment are signs of potential fraud. Countermeasures include enabling notifications, immediately requesting a refund (unconditionally within 8 weeks), filing a written objection, reporting to the police, and objecting within 14 days to any court summons. The confusion surrounding PayPal-related transactions in August and the report of **15.8 million credential dumps (the company denies any new breaches)** have heightened user concerns, with police warnings and reports of incidents frequently appearing on social media. It is essential to avoid password reuse and to use 2FA or passkeys.