Like many others on the web, I do have and use a PayPal.com account. I also use on-line banking. I get emails like the one below sometimes 2-3 times a week, and I think I’m finally at my wits end. Even though I have tried contacting PayPal or my financial institutions on multiple occasions, this has not been resolved, so I have taken matters into my own hands emails. I’ve setup a canned response letter/email to send back as a reply. I am not recommending you do this, but it sure made me feel better. lol~
Hopefully somebody somewhere is reading my reply, and having the need to go change their underwear!
THE SPAM/SCAM Email:
TO:Brad@Activerain.com
FROM:”service@paypal.com”
Resolution Center
(Your case ID is PP-014-936-988.)
We constantly working to ensure security by regularly screening the accounts in our system. We recently reviewed your account, and we need more information to help us provide you with secure service. Until we can collect this information, your access to sensitive account features will be limited. We would like to restore your access as soon as possible, and we apologize for the inconvenience.
Your account has been limited for more than 180 days. It will continue to be limited but you now have the ability to withdraw funds. Why is my account access limited? Your account access has been limited for the following reason(s): (Your case ID for this reason is PP-428-936-988.) Aug. 23, 2008: We have reason to believe that your account was accessed by a third party. We have limited access to sensitive account features in case your account has been accessed by an unauthorized third party.
We understand that having limited access can be an inconvenience, but protecting your account is our primary concern. (Your case ID for this reason is PP-395-000-761.) How can I restore my account access? Please visit the Resolution Center and complete the “Steps to Remove Limitations.” Once you complete all of the checklist items, your case will be reviewed by one of our Account Specialists. We will send you an email with the outcome of the review.
(END of SCAM email)
Note: How do I know this is a SCAM/SPAM or Phishing? Notice the first two words, Hmm.. Also, when I hover the mouse over the link they provided, it should say PayPal.com in the lower left corner of the browser.
It DOESN’T, it says: HTTP://jimbush4.com/company/cgi-bin/ so my friends, this is a bunch of CRAP!
Be careful to never click on the links in these emails. They are phishing for your personal information, and without a doubt, intend to do you harm. You need to know about this and protect yourself. I have always just deleted these after reporting them, but it’s not getting any better so…..
Here’s My “NEW” Email Response:
Your email and IP address have been forwarded to the FCC and Federal Authorities for further investigation. You will be contacted by your IS provider or the Law firm of Duncan, Jacobs and Fitzer: Attorneys at Law, with any future correspondence related to this matter.
Your case # is (187-6043-PP-519) you will need this number for future reference in all court case matters. Please be advised that your original email can and will be used as evidence against you in the Court of Law.
Your email, ISP service and all Internet access and connectivity may be limited or discontinued until further notice or until this case can be fully resolved. If you have any questions, you may contact the FCC Rules & Regulations Department.
Contact Info:
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street SW Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322)
TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322)
Fax: 1-866-418-0232
E-mail: fccinfo@fcc.gov
AR members – Please be careful when you get this type of Spam or Scam from any (fake) Business or Service Provider. I know I am probably preaching to the choir here, but if this helps just one person from being a victim of Identity theft or worse, a financial hardship, then all my time and venting here is worth it. Are you sick and tired of Spams and Scams?