A text says there’s a problem with your Venmo account, or a payment is waiting. You’re not even sure Venmo texts people, so you hesitate. Good.
Venmo Alert: Unusual login detected. Your account will be limited. Verify now: venmo-secure-login.example
An invented example, but real scam messages look just like it.
Short answer: Be very suspicious of any Venmo text with a link, a threat, or a request for a code. If something really needs doing, Venmo says you can find it by logging in to the app.
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Red flags in a message like this
- A link to “verify” or “unlock” your account
- Someone asking you to read back a code
- A threat that your account will be limited or closed
- A generic greeting instead of your name
- Pressure to act right now
What Venmo says
- Venmo says real messages address you by name, while fakes often use greetings like “Dear user”.
- If there’s an urgent need to complete something on your account, you can find it by logging in or opening the Venmo app.
- On a suspicious call, don’t give personal information or repeat account access codes to the caller.
If you already tapped, replied or paid
- Typed your login: change your Venmo password and your email password if it’s the same.
- Read out a code: contact Venmo through the app and change your password at once.
- Sent money: contact Venmo and your bank straight away.
Report it: Venmo asks you to forward a screenshot of the text, showing the full number, to phishing@venmo.com. Also forward to 7726 and report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Still not sure? Paste it into ScamRead before you reply or pay.