Protecting your account

We take a number of steps to help ensure the security of your account. But there's also a lot you can do. Find out more about ways you can protect your account.

Solve a problem

I received an email that looks suspicious.

If the email was sent from us, you'll also find it in your Messages in My eBay. Send any suspicious email to [email protected], or if the email appears to be from PayPal, send it to [email protected]. Never click a link in a suspicious email. Learn more about reporting spoof emails.

I think someone is using my account without my permission.

If you notice any changes to your account that you didn't authorize, sign in to your account and change your password and secret question and answer. If you can't sign in, contact us immediately by clicking the "Contact us" link on our home page. Learn about about what to do if you suspect account theft.

I’ve received a request to update my account information.

If the message was sent from us, you'll also find it in your in My eBay in the Messages tab. If it's not there, it's fake.

Help topics

Account security

Protecting yourself from account or identity theft
Keep your account and identity safe by choosing your username and password carefully, watching for fake email, and using online protection software.

What to do if you suspect account theft
If you think someone knows your eBay account information, find out how to secure your account and report the theft.

What to do if you suspect identity theft
If you think someone has gained access to confidential information about you, take steps to secure your financial accounts and put a fraud alert on your credit reports.

How to tell the difference between real and fake emails and websites
Check for legitimate messages in My eBay and learn how to spot the characteristics of spoof (fake) email.

Entering verification codes
Help protect your account with this additional security check.