AARP Hearing Center
I recently received a "welcome to Venmo" email in my gmail account. I didn't think much of it (I get a lot of spam in that account). But later I thought, "wait, I've been a Venmo user for years, I shouldn't be getting a welcome email." Sure enough, after checking it appears that someone has used my gmail address to help set up a new Venmo account. I've reported to the FTC. Changed all passwords for my online accounts. Froze all credit reports. I tried reporting to Venmo, but good luck with that: intercepted at every turn by a "beta" AI agent that doesn't seem to understand how to handle this type of situation, beyond sending me back to the help page. The "contact us" also tends to loop around back to the help page or the AI agent. The phone voice menu also has trouble with this type of situation and wants me to try chat (with the AI agent). In the meantime, the scammer WAS more adept. He/she appears to have set up the account with a phone number, then added my email address, then set MFA for attempts to change the password. Sigh. I'll keep trying to contact Venmo and watch my accounts like a hawk. Other ideas?
[5/31/26] AARP Fraud Watch Network™.
Our free resource helps you learn how to spot scams and get guidance if you've been targeted.
Call Our Free Helpline If You Suspect a Scam — Mon-Fri 8am to 8pm EST.
877-908-3360.